F. Scott Fitzgerald’s iconic novel “The Great Gatsby,” which tells the tragic tale of a millionaire on Long Island, first released to mixed reviews and lacked significant sales upon its 1925 debut. Over the past century, especially after World War II, the book has evolved into a literary classic, frequently included in educational curricula and continuously referenced in modern culture. The narrative has been endlessly memed, referenced, and reinvented, as I previously discussed in a recent article in The Times.
Specifically, the reasons behind its enduring allure are fascinating, yet one of the most apparent aspects deserves reiteration: it is simply an excellent book! To clarify, I’m not just referring to it as a Great Book; while “Gatsby” can indeed be classified as such, readers often approach literary masterpieces with an obligatory mentality, adhering to lists of required readings that might make it feel more burdensome than enjoyable. “The Great Gatsby” offers profound themes and insights while also delivering sheer entertainment. Here are some reasons why it stands out.
For starters, it is a brief, easily digestible narrative. At less than 200 pages, “Gatsby” is perfect for a cozy, rainy afternoon or a long journey. The book opens with some reflective musing from narrator Nick Carraway, but the plot quickly accelerates with the introduction of Jay Gatsby, enveloped in an air of intrigue and drama that captures the reader's attention. Fitzgerald expertly maintains the suspense surrounding Gatsby’s character through layers of complexity, revelations, and subtle hints until the very conclusion.
Additionally, the romantic element is captivating, particularly emanating from Gatsby himself. Nick observes him as possessing a profound sensitivity to life’s dreams, although the harsh realities of modern existence—characterized by materialism and deceit—ultimately thwart those aspirations, leading to Gatsby's downfall. Despite his wealth and illegal connections, Gatsby's pure love for Daisy, his lost love now tied to the vile Tom Buchanan, adds depth, tension, and ultimately buoyancy to the narrative. Fitzgerald deftly balances Gatsby’s noble spirit against the backdrop of a superficial society, transforming what could be mere sentimentality into a poignant commentary.
Lastly, humor plays a significant role in the novel’s appeal. The reviewers of Fitzgerald’s era recognized the author’s keen eye for the absurdities of society—hypocrisies are laid bare and imbued with laughter, particularly through characters like Tom Buchanan, who oscillates between being a brutish adversary and a caricature rich in comic relief.
Furthermore, Fitzgerald’s mastery of language shines throughout the text; he deftly maneuvers from sharp wit to lyrical reflection, crafting a voice that is timeless. Employing an agile style, he swiftly alternates pacing and tone, maintaining a conversational intimacy even when delving into broader themes. The closing lines, “And so we beat on, boats against the current, borne ceaselessly back into the past,” encapsulate the novel’s philosophical underpinnings, yet they emerge from a sea of equally enchanting prose and imagery.
In summary, "The Great Gatsby" encapsulates intermingled themes of love, aspiration, and disillusionment against the vibrant backdrop of the Roaring Twenties, securing its place as a beloved narrative across generations. Its blend of humor, romance, and sharp social critique assures its status as not just an important read but a delightful one, inviting readers to indulge in its pages repeatedly.
