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The Great Gatsby By F. Scott Fitzgerald

Good Essays

In the book, The Great Gatsby, written by F. Scott Fitzgerald, Gatsby is exemplified through many symbols and idols. Fitzgerald uses cars to represent wealth, success, status, and glamour. As Friedrich Nietzsche states, “There are more idols in the world than there are realities.” Nietzsche’s quote shows how idols and symbols are used to create impressions. Images are powerful and set a stage for others to judge one’s character, enabling human beings to avoid seeing what realities are. Idols are potent enough to mask the truth. In the novel, despite Gatsby 's own insecurities, he is viewed as an idol in society. Idols impact and influence Gatsby’s life and those living around him. Gatsby’s car represents an idol, illustrating his wealth, capturing attention, creating impressions, and covering misconceptions throughout life in the West Egg.
Jay Gatsby soundly represents the American Dream - that of being richer and bigger which equates to adventure and achievement. The American Dream during the 1920 's is a transition period where hope is replaced with money. Clearly, society is able to see Gatsby and his materialistic goods as an image of someone and something to be greatly admired. He is the perfect example of the notion that in order to be happy and make our lives worthwhile, one had to achieve high, materialistic standards. Perception and judgment is based on achievement. Gatsby is identified as the man with the flashy car. “I’d seen it. Everybody had seen it. It was a

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