Welcome to our blog. Comment on chapters as you read them. Gatsby is commonly considered the greatest American novel of the past hundred years or so; you can read it romantically or religiously, you can read it a la Freud or a la Marx, you can read it with an eye to race and eugenics or with an eye to suburbs and car culture, you can read it as being about class, about technology, about love (straight or gay, of course), and about dreams. Gatsby is the great novel of nearly everything--but especially of youth. It is ironic, it is heartfelt, it is simple and sophisticated at once, and almost everyone likes it. It is also an extraordinarily virtuosic prose performance. The book is written at a pitch of non-stop brilliance that has never been equaled. Enjoy.
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
Chapter 2
The situation unfolds. It's quite a party at Tom's love nest...
That does seem to be hinted at, and I have to admit that I don't completely understand how that odd passage with its enigmatic ellipses and crude lever-touching fits in with the rest of the novel. Nick's sexuality is sort of fluid... I don't know. I'm curious to know what others think--but I should also say that while it is sharp of you, Gabriel, to notice it, I don't think it's all THAT important to the book as a whole.
I loved this party scene. mainly pages 31-35, because I was reading it and following along with the conversations and keeping track of the plot and how everyone was related to everyone else, and then once I had finished it I realized that the dialogue was amazing. The way in which it was written allows it to flow like a jumbled conversation between multiple people who know each other to varying degrees, who are trying to be heard over ambient noise and other similar conversations. It wasn't choppy or awkward, when people cut each other off it seemed like they really did so. Sometimes dialogue in books can seem scripted and unwieldy but this was light and perfect. I am already impressed with Scott's writing, the ease of it that makes it seem so real and complex. This book feels like there are things being left out, and they make it all the better.
So far, I've really disliked Tom and all of his friends at the party, including Mrs. Wilson, but I liked the party scene, because it was mostly just people chattering idly, but it was somehow very interesting, and I think it helped to show how maybe Nick is an outsider or kind of fringe figure because of his personality more than because of his social standings. Although he is also a stranger in this group of people, and is drunk for only the second time in his life. I was a little confused by the last scene; it didn't seem to have much of a purpose (unless it is to insinuate that Nick and Mr. McKee slept together? Except that seems kind of unlikely), and the quote with the ellipses was also odd. Anyways, I also thought it was interesting (although unrelated) that both Hemingway and Fitzgerald named their characters Nick.
The drama just doesn't stop. What I'm most interested in is if/when/how Daisy will find out that Tom is cheating on her, and likewise about George Wilson and Myrtle. It seems like a sick circle of adultery to me, and I'm wondering if that's why people enjoy this book so much. It makes sense- drama, excitement... it's compelling and makes for a good story. It's also modern and can apply to our times. I think that's what's so appealing about The Great Gatsby; people can relate to it. Staying faithful is something that's talked about a lot, especially in the media.
As Dalia said, the relationships make for a good story. The fact that Tom is connected to everyone allows us to see what is going on between each couple. I am interested to see how things play out when Daisy and George Wilson find out their spouses are cheating on them. I am confused as to whether or not Daisy already knows since Myrtle always calls Tom.
Fitzgerald's writing completely blew me away in this chapter; for me, it was incredible how, through only a few phrases, he managed to make me feel so badly for Mr. Wilson and make me hate Mrs. Wilson so much. Through Nick, his description of Mr. Wilson's slightly anemic appearance and naive innocence resulted in my complete disgust for Mrs. Wilson and Tom Buchanan. Yet, at the same time, I was intrigued by Tom, especially after he broke Mrs. Wilson's nose for saying Daisy's name; he's clearly got way deeper issues than being adulterous. - Catherine Marris
The writing of this chapter matches perfectly to the scene; you can almost feel how Nick is in a daze and is watching various things happen randomly about him. The weaving of the events makes it seem like Nick is in a trance like state (which he basically is since he is completely smashed).
As I was reading this chapter I was not quite sure what was going on. Fitzgerald's writing was so subtle (for lack of a better word) I was not sure i was reading it correctly. Turns out i had the right idea it was just so bizarre. Especially juxtaposed to the quieter scene at the Buchanan manor
I agree with Benny. You would think after a man hit a women with suck authority to break her nose that it would be a big deal. The way nick describes it is very cool and not that extravagant at all, as if it happens on a daily basis.
I really enjoyed reading the descriptions, because Fitzgerald gives the reader the impression that the reader is actually able to see every single minute detail. However, I dislike all the plot about Nick and his adventures with the snobbish rich people. I hate the part about the party whereby they all got drunk. I don't really like all these snob characters and I hate reading about what they think. All of them are so pretentious and fake. I also dislike all of these cheating-on-each-other drama. Frankly, I liked reading My Antonia and The Scarlet Letter more, where the characters seem more interesting and less superficial.
I agree with everyone. Despite all the drama of the surrounding scene, Nick maintains a cool, even oblivious head. At this time he seems to me the smallest personality the book has to offer; perhaps that is because he himself is narrating? I wonder if Nick will gain some of the depths that are hinted at, or if he will remain the casual observer.
In response to what Benny said, I believe that the reason there was not much reaction to the violence against Myrtle was because he knew that she deserved it. Also, because of Toms snobbish personality, it was predictable that he would show violence to someone of a much lower class such as Myrtle.
It's also possible that when FSF writes that Tom "broke" her nose (that is the exact word, right? I don't have a copy of the novel here), he means that he bloodied it, not that he actually fractured the bone... Either way, Tom's a violent guy who seems to think his mistress isn't good enough to say his wife's name... I see Harry's point, maybe--Myrtle was being annoying--but to say that Myrtle deserved it seems to me a stretch.
As for Tsi Yu's distaste--well, yes. These are loathsome people. I do like Gatsby better, just as Nick does--but I'm not sure Tsi Yu will... --EC
I believe that this shows the kind of mean natured person that Tom really is. In case there was any doubt, now people can see that he is clearly not a nice guy.
I really hate Tom. First Nick shows us how not only is he cheating on his wife, but he is also lying to his mistress about how he cannot divorce Daisy. With all of these lies of his it seems almost strange that Tom is being so honest and straightforward with Nick about his affair, making it seem like there is a lot Nick, and therefore us, do not know yet about that situation. The people Tom is hanging around with Nick even describes as being horrible. Then when Tom breaks Myrtle's nose at the end it just proves how truly horrible a man he is.
I agree with much of what has been said earlier: the relationships and secrets between all the characters is intriguing and makes me want to learn more about them. I'm really taken in by the seemingly shallow setting. Nick spends a lot of time explaining the high and low areas of the city and the houses around him, including Gatsby's mansion. On top of that, the multiple adulterous relationships seem stereotypical at first. I was really drawn in my the moment when Myrtle starts talking about Daisy and Tom gets very angry. It was a glimse into a deeper side of these charcaters. Now that all these different characters and relationships have been established I'm excited to learn more about why they're doing what they are doing.
After reading this chapter I still don't understand why Tom likes Myrtle. She doesn't appear to be very good looking and she seems extremely needy and childish. It will be interesting to see how this relationship plays out over the course of the novel. Henry Lucey
I agree with Amanda that Nick seems to lack a real strong personality. He seems to just narrate and not add much else to the book. I wonder if Nick will be like My Antonia's first narrator (in the introduction) and will not add anything except that without him the story could not be told in the way that Fitzgerald intended.
Am I the only one confused by the so called "eyes of Doctor T. J. Eckleburg"? I had to do an internet search to find out that this is a reference to some billboard but I still have no idea what it's significance in the story is
I think the way Myrtle is portrayed in the party scene is kind of sad, in a way. She tries to adopt this high-class hostess way of speaking/gesturing "my dear..." and the reader gets a sense of how happy she is, not just being with Tom but being able to experience a style of life she wouldn't have otherwise. Also, I was very confused about the last page - it seemed like a drunken dream, and I really wasn't sure what was going on.
The party scene exposes the below-the-surface behavior of the supposedly glamorous society in the East Egg. Nick serves as an objective narrator and is quick to analyze, particularly dichotomies of the glamorous and those associated with the glamorous; for example, Myrtle is stocky but sensual. Also Tom is very aggressive but also calm: his nonchalant behavior during the first dinner scene in the first chapter juxtaposes sharply when he broke Myrtle's nose. His potential aggressive behavior lies below the surface of his suave, glamorous lifestyle. This book reminds me of the Catcher in the Rye, but Holden is more cynical and judges people more than Nick does, it appears.
I Though it was funny how nick described Gatsby. The way he described him is exactly how I would have pictured Him. The only thing that surprised me was that he did not drink and was reserved. I though he would have been more of a ladies man but maybe that will come latter.
Gatsby is a mystery to me. Why did he throw wild parties? Why did he, as Elijah mentioned, stay sober? Why and how was he rich? Somewhere in this chapter, someone told Nick that Gatsby did not want to get on anyone's bad side - that Gatsby only wanted to please others. Rumors of a potential murder, fighting in the war for Germany or America explain Gatbsy's widespread reputation as a host of free, alcohol-endorsing, wild parties - and how little his admirers know about him.
It seems like Nick introduces chapter 3 in the same way he introduces the novel; he starts with an abstract description, then moves into discussing the details of a particular event. I was interested by the part in which Nick himself acknowledges that from what he has written, it would seem that all he has done is go to three social events, but in actuality, they were merely "casual events in a crowded summer". I think it's interesting that Fitzgerald chose to write in the voice of a kind of conscious narrator, who is aware of his reader and is writing about past events. I feel like in some ways it gives Nick some power over us, because he gets to decide what to include and how to describe it based on events that he has already 'experienced', but we have not yet heard about. Perhaps this makes him less objective a narrator.
I wondered about the enigma of Gatsby, the man who seems to be whatever everyone else needs, a wealthy supporter of extravagant lifestyle who does not engage in all the frivolity he oversees yet gains something from it, but also about "Owl Eyes". What is his role? He doesn't seem very important plot wise, or like a character who will return, so maybe he is a symbol of the "lost generation" that Fitzgerald was part of, the people who after the war found themselves searching for meaning as sharp as life and death in a society obsessed with material wealth and opulence.
I found this chapter to be cold and disturbing. I don't exactly realize why Nick was at that horrid party in the first place. The gross menagerie of low class degenerates, who are all as horrible as the next. Why is Nick in the company of these people if he doesn't even like them. Hes so judgmental, but decides to stay and watch this travesty of a party unfold. And poor myrtle getting her nose broke, the whole party was just disgusting. But I feel that nick, so disingenuous, was the most disgusting of all. -- Nathan R.
In this chapter, we meet Gatsby for the first time. After reading the descriptions of his luxurious house and fancy party, I was expecting Gatsby to be a snobby, drunken, rich man with no concern to anyone else. However, he turns out to be a very low key down to earth guy. We still don't know much about him, but I am interested in finding out who he really is. His private talk with Jordan Baker raises another mystery that could possibly reveal something important about Gatsby later on.
CHAPTER 3 I found it funny how many strange characters flood the Gatsby estate, and how little their oddness affects Jordan and Nick. Gatsby is also a bit weird, almost like a super hero in disguise. I think Gatsby may be involved in something far beyond the west egg. This novel is beginning to start up and its beginning to capture the feeling of the 20's, with politically instability, art and culture clashes and a complete upheaval of American society. -- Nathan R
CHAPTER 3 Haha Nathan just voiced my thoughts, albeit in rich vocabulary ;) I find it horrible that these lousy people attend a party without being invited, gossip about their host, get wasted with alcohol, and argue like pathetic couples. Nick is also a hypocrite, because he said that he was "inclined to reserve all judgements" in chapter 1 but he is shown to be judgmental.
Chapter 3 Gatsby does seem to be a mystery. From the beginning the impression is garnered that he's a tacky nouveau-rich young guy. However, when Nick finally meets him, he seems completely charismatic and at ease in his grand mansion, and even more so at his grand parties. He seems like the type who would have been surrounded his whole life by elegance and affluence. Like Nathan, I thought the party was disgusting and soulless. I can't really put my finger on it, but it gave me a terrible feeling.
Like Amanda, I originally thought that Gatsby seemed as though he had always had money, but what Jordan said really resonated with me: that she didn't really believe Gatsby went to Oxford. After that, I started thinking of him as a remnant of the "rags to riches" era. Maybe that's why he doesn't fit in with the others at the party - he's an outside to their care-free, leisurely world.
Chapter 3 I feel like there are two sides to Nick. Sometimes he deems himself as inferior and points out other peoples greatness. However, he also has a sort of cocky side to him. For instance, when he explains that he is one of the only honest people he knows, and that he was one of the only people really invited to the party. I look forward to seeing which side of Nick we will see more of. Henry
Chapter 3 There seems to be a lot of eye-related references so far in the book, especially the eyes of Dr. Eckelburg and "Owl Eyes." Perhaps this is to draw our attention to a potential theme of the book - a look at perspectives? We've talked a bit in class about Nick's perspective, so maybe the references to eyes are emphasizing the importance of perspective.
I am still wondering what is wrong with Gatsby. Though he isnt quite so snobby he still lives in fantastic luxury and seems to be wealthier than the East Eggers. I wonder what it is that a) he lives in West Egg and b) why he lives in relative seclusion, did he choose to? was he forced to?
The part where the butler calls Miss Baker in to see Gatsby was a little strange. And then later when she comes out, she "tantalizes" Nick with what she says. It made me really curious about what Gatsby said to her in the library. Also, that scene shows a different side of Gatsby, where he isn't carefully choosing his words, but is actually quite engaged in his conversation until he reaches the public's eye.
Chapter 3 I'm wondering what other settings the book will have other than parties. Of course, the party in chapter 2 was different; it was more low-key. But I'm curious as to how else we'll see characters' personalities shine through. And I also thought Gatsby would act proud of how evidently rich he is. I would think that someone who throws lavish parties would be a snob. Apparently not!
Gatsby so far does not seem to feel like the person Nick makes him out to be in the beginning of the story. He seems to be a little overly confident but genuinely tries to connect with people. For example when he talks to Nick about being in the army. Also the way he doesn't necessarily join in at his parties is quite interesting and reveals that he may be a little more reserved than we expect.
Gatsby is key example of the modernist of idea of having a lot more than just at the surface. It is especially interesting how Gatsby just seems to observe his guests. It seems like he is having a party almost just for the sake of having a party, but there must be more.
Nick might be honest like he says he is but thats only because he is so strangely emotionally detached from everything. We don't know if he enjoys to hang out with such awful people, we don't know how he feels about their behavior, we don't know how he feels about going to Gatsby's party, and why he stays so long, and we don't know why he apparently "loves" Jordan. He's giving us many facts but Nick's motives remain unbelievably unclear.
during chapter two we meet more and more character during the party scene, the two couple seemed really awkward because they don't fit with each other. I feel like Nick has some feelings for Jordan Baker but is too shy to show it, or maybe he is waiting for the right moment to do it. I still can't believe Tom actually broke Myrtle's nose. That's ridiculous, I mean how can Myrtle still have feelings toward Tom after that. Wow. Hopefully we learn more about Gatsby in the later chapters.
With the introduction of Gatsby, the character proves himself to be quite different than other people in the book and even more mysterious, with his habit of throwing parties for complete strangers whom he just watches, and strange mannerisms when speaking. His private conversation with Jordan compounds this. (Chapter 3)
In chapter 3 I was really intrigued by Jordan saying "I like large parties. They're so intimate. At small parties there isn't any privacy" This is statement is really ironic. Usually you would think of huge groups at big parties and not being able to have a moment to yourself. I'm not sure exactly what Jordan means but I think it has to do with everyone knowing every detail of each other's lives in their social circle. Larger social circles make it less likely that everyone knows whats going on in ones personal life.
I agree with Cody and what he was saying. Gatsby seems to be somewhat of a mystery to the reader and I assume that he will remain to be a strange and mysterious character. I thought it was interesting how he seemed different from everyon else at the party. This was sort of like Nick in the previous chapter.
I find it interesting that Gatsby maintains a very low profile and does not drink at his own parties. Instead, he prefers to watch and make sure everyone is having a good time. What does this tell us about his feelings for being wealthy? Is he modest and extravagant at the same time? He calls everyone "old sport," and maybe this is a hint that he is actually trying to be on everyone's "level." -- Rohan
In Chapter 3 i really liked the scene where Gatsby and Nick meet. Its funny and its also what Ive been waiting for in the book. The more Nick talks about Gatsby and describes him the more I like him, like the way he tells us that Gastby would just stand on the steps and watch his parties to see if people were enjoying themselves. Gatsby seems like a good guy so far and Im interested to see what happens between Nick and him in the future.
I am quite confused on why Tom would be "okay with" showing Nick who his lover was. Isnt Tom's wife the cousin of Nick and isnt having another lover while being married not acceptable. Wouldn't he expect Nick to be against this affair and therefore lead to him having a negative oulook on Tom?
I agree with what Layla said about Chapter 2. I think that Myrtle is just putting on these pretenses of being satisphied with Tom where in reality she just wants to show that she can, and deserves to be, part of the upper class instead of stuck as the wife of a garage owner. Myrtle got into an argument with Tom and he broke her nose- this may show that Tom, who we were told has a temper, might even be abusive, but seemingly only to Myrtle (or previous mistresses). I don't think Myrtle will complain because she picks the lifestyle over her true happiness. That's what I see from what we've read. - Olga
What I liked about this chapter was that it both transcends the era it takes place in, but also describes the lifestyle of the rich and influential in this point of time. The wealthy lifestyle and the wasteful, riotous moments are the ones that are applicable to now. I thought the part with the drunk drivers was pretty funny and pretty close to something I might find in a book written in and about our generation. The parts where it felt more dated was with the forced polite conversation and where a husband picks his wife up over his shoulder to make her leave a party, or a wife nags her husband to keep him away from the younger women, which came off a little sexist to me, but may just be a representation of the sexism of that era and not necessarily Fitzgerald's beliefs.
... I am confused, and call my dirty minded, but was the ending suppose to make it seem like Nick and Mr. McKee, slept together?
ReplyDeleteThat does seem to be hinted at, and I have to admit that I don't completely understand how that odd passage with its enigmatic ellipses and crude lever-touching fits in with the rest of the novel. Nick's sexuality is sort of fluid... I don't know. I'm curious to know what others think--but I should also say that while it is sharp of you, Gabriel, to notice it, I don't think it's all THAT important to the book as a whole.
ReplyDeleteI loved this party scene. mainly pages 31-35, because I was reading it and following along with the conversations and keeping track of the plot and how everyone was related to everyone else, and then once I had finished it I realized that the dialogue was amazing. The way in which it was written allows it to flow like a jumbled conversation between multiple people who know each other to varying degrees, who are trying to be heard over ambient noise and other similar conversations. It wasn't choppy or awkward, when people cut each other off it seemed like they really did so. Sometimes dialogue in books can seem scripted and unwieldy but this was light and perfect. I am already impressed with Scott's writing, the ease of it that makes it seem so real and complex. This book feels like there are things being left out, and they make it all the better.
ReplyDeleteSo far, I've really disliked Tom and all of his friends at the party, including Mrs. Wilson, but I liked the party scene, because it was mostly just people chattering idly, but it was somehow very interesting, and I think it helped to show how maybe Nick is an outsider or kind of fringe figure because of his personality more than because of his social standings. Although he is also a stranger in this group of people, and is drunk for only the second time in his life. I was a little confused by the last scene; it didn't seem to have much of a purpose (unless it is to insinuate that Nick and Mr. McKee slept together? Except that seems kind of unlikely), and the quote with the ellipses was also odd. Anyways, I also thought it was interesting (although unrelated) that both Hemingway and Fitzgerald named their characters Nick.
ReplyDeleteThe drama just doesn't stop. What I'm most interested in is if/when/how Daisy will find out that Tom is cheating on her, and likewise about George Wilson and Myrtle. It seems like a sick circle of adultery to me, and I'm wondering if that's why people enjoy this book so much. It makes sense- drama, excitement... it's compelling and makes for a good story. It's also modern and can apply to our times. I think that's what's so appealing about The Great Gatsby; people can relate to it. Staying faithful is something that's talked about a lot, especially in the media.
ReplyDeleteAs Dalia said, the relationships make for a good story. The fact that Tom is connected to everyone allows us to see what is going on between each couple. I am interested to see how things play out when Daisy and George Wilson find out their spouses are cheating on them. I am confused as to whether or not Daisy already knows since Myrtle always calls Tom.
ReplyDeleteFitzgerald's writing completely blew me away in this chapter; for me, it was incredible how, through only a few phrases, he managed to make me feel so badly for Mr. Wilson and make me hate Mrs. Wilson so much. Through Nick, his description of Mr. Wilson's slightly anemic appearance and naive innocence resulted in my complete disgust for Mrs. Wilson and Tom Buchanan. Yet, at the same time, I was intrigued by Tom, especially after he broke Mrs. Wilson's nose for saying Daisy's name; he's clearly got way deeper issues than being adulterous.
ReplyDelete- Catherine Marris
The writing of this chapter matches perfectly to the scene; you can almost feel how Nick is in a daze and is watching various things happen randomly about him. The weaving of the events makes it seem like Nick is in a trance like state (which he basically is since he is completely smashed).
ReplyDeleteAs I was reading this chapter I was not quite sure what was going on. Fitzgerald's writing was so subtle (for lack of a better word) I was not sure i was reading it correctly. Turns out i had the right idea it was just so bizarre. Especially juxtaposed to the quieter scene at the Buchanan manor
ReplyDeleteDan M
I thought it was hilarious how understated and sudden Tom's breaking Myrtle's nose was and how it isn't given much extra thought by Nick.
ReplyDelete-Benny
I agree with Benny. You would think after a man hit a women with suck authority to break her nose that it would be a big deal. The way nick describes it is very cool and not that extravagant at all, as if it happens on a daily basis.
ReplyDeleteI really enjoyed reading the descriptions, because Fitzgerald gives the reader the impression that the reader is actually able to see every single minute detail.
ReplyDeleteHowever, I dislike all the plot about Nick and his adventures with the snobbish rich people. I hate the part about the party whereby they all got drunk. I don't really like all these snob characters and I hate reading about what they think. All of them are so pretentious and fake. I also dislike all of these cheating-on-each-other drama. Frankly, I liked reading My Antonia and The Scarlet Letter more, where the characters seem more interesting and less superficial.
I agree with everyone. Despite all the drama of the surrounding scene, Nick maintains a cool, even oblivious head. At this time he seems to me the smallest personality the book has to offer; perhaps that is because he himself is narrating? I wonder if Nick will gain some of the depths that are hinted at, or if he will remain the casual observer.
ReplyDeleteIn response to what Benny said, I believe that the reason there was not much reaction to the violence against Myrtle was because he knew that she deserved it. Also, because of Toms snobbish personality, it was predictable that he would show violence to someone of a much lower class such as Myrtle.
ReplyDeleteIt's also possible that when FSF writes that Tom "broke" her nose (that is the exact word, right? I don't have a copy of the novel here), he means that he bloodied it, not that he actually fractured the bone... Either way, Tom's a violent guy who seems to think his mistress isn't good enough to say his wife's name... I see Harry's point, maybe--Myrtle was being annoying--but to say that Myrtle deserved it seems to me a stretch.
ReplyDeleteAs for Tsi Yu's distaste--well, yes. These are loathsome people. I do like Gatsby better, just as Nick does--but I'm not sure Tsi Yu will...
--EC
I believe that this shows the kind of mean natured person that Tom really is. In case there was any doubt, now people can see that he is clearly not a nice guy.
ReplyDeleteI really hate Tom. First Nick shows us how not only is he cheating on his wife, but he is also lying to his mistress about how he cannot divorce Daisy. With all of these lies of his it seems almost strange that Tom is being so honest and straightforward with Nick about his affair, making it seem like there is a lot Nick, and therefore us, do not know yet about that situation. The people Tom is hanging around with Nick even describes as being horrible. Then when Tom breaks Myrtle's nose at the end it just proves how truly horrible a man he is.
ReplyDelete-Matthew
I agree with much of what has been said earlier: the relationships and secrets between all the characters is intriguing and makes me want to learn more about them. I'm really taken in by the seemingly shallow setting. Nick spends a lot of time explaining the high and low areas of the city and the houses around him, including Gatsby's mansion. On top of that, the multiple adulterous relationships seem stereotypical at first. I was really drawn in my the moment when Myrtle starts talking about Daisy and Tom gets very angry. It was a glimse into a deeper side of these charcaters. Now that all these different characters and relationships have been established I'm excited to learn more about why they're doing what they are doing.
ReplyDeleteAfter reading this chapter I still don't understand why Tom likes Myrtle. She doesn't appear to be very good looking and she seems extremely needy and childish. It will be interesting to see how this relationship plays out over the course of the novel. Henry Lucey
ReplyDeleteI agree with Amanda that Nick seems to lack a real strong personality. He seems to just narrate and not add much else to the book. I wonder if Nick will be like My Antonia's first narrator (in the introduction) and will not add anything except that without him the story could not be told in the way that Fitzgerald intended.
ReplyDelete-Sydney
Am I the only one confused by the so called "eyes of Doctor T. J. Eckleburg"? I had to do an internet search to find out that this is a reference to some billboard but I still have no idea what it's significance in the story is
ReplyDeleteI think the way Myrtle is portrayed in the party scene is kind of sad, in a way. She tries to adopt this high-class hostess way of speaking/gesturing "my dear..." and the reader gets a sense of how happy she is, not just being with Tom but being able to experience a style of life she wouldn't have otherwise. Also, I was very confused about the last page - it seemed like a drunken dream, and I really wasn't sure what was going on.
ReplyDeleteThe party scene exposes the below-the-surface behavior of the supposedly glamorous society in the East Egg. Nick serves as an objective narrator and is quick to analyze, particularly dichotomies of the glamorous and those associated with the glamorous; for example, Myrtle is stocky but sensual. Also Tom is very aggressive but also calm: his nonchalant behavior during the first dinner scene in the first chapter juxtaposes sharply when he broke Myrtle's nose. His potential aggressive behavior lies below the surface of his suave, glamorous lifestyle. This book reminds me of the Catcher in the Rye, but Holden is more cynical and judges people more than Nick does, it appears.
ReplyDeleteCHAPTER 3
ReplyDeleteI Though it was funny how nick described Gatsby. The way he described him is exactly how I would have pictured Him. The only thing that surprised me was that he did not drink and was reserved. I though he would have been more of a ladies man but maybe that will come latter.
Chapter 3
ReplyDeleteGatsby is a mystery to me. Why did he throw wild parties? Why did he, as Elijah mentioned, stay sober? Why and how was he rich? Somewhere in this chapter, someone told Nick that Gatsby did not want to get on anyone's bad side - that Gatsby only wanted to please others. Rumors of a potential murder, fighting in the war for Germany or America explain Gatbsy's widespread reputation as a host of free, alcohol-endorsing, wild parties - and how little his admirers know about him.
ALSO CHAPTER 3
ReplyDeleteIt seems like Nick introduces chapter 3 in the same way he introduces the novel; he starts with an abstract description, then moves into discussing the details of a particular event. I was interested by the part in which Nick himself acknowledges that from what he has written, it would seem that all he has done is go to three social events, but in actuality, they were merely "casual events in a crowded summer". I think it's interesting that Fitzgerald chose to write in the voice of a kind of conscious narrator, who is aware of his reader and is writing about past events. I feel like in some ways it gives Nick some power over us, because he gets to decide what to include and how to describe it based on events that he has already 'experienced', but we have not yet heard about. Perhaps this makes him less objective a narrator.
Chapter 3
ReplyDeleteI wondered about the enigma of Gatsby, the man who seems to be whatever everyone else needs, a wealthy supporter of extravagant lifestyle who does not engage in all the frivolity he oversees yet gains something from it, but also about "Owl Eyes". What is his role? He doesn't seem very important plot wise, or like a character who will return, so maybe he is a symbol of the "lost generation" that Fitzgerald was part of, the people who after the war found themselves searching for meaning as sharp as life and death in a society obsessed with material wealth and opulence.
I found this chapter to be cold and disturbing. I don't exactly realize why Nick was at that horrid party in the first place. The gross menagerie of low class degenerates, who are all as horrible as the next. Why is Nick in the company of these people if he doesn't even like them. Hes so judgmental, but decides to stay and watch this travesty of a party unfold. And poor myrtle getting her nose broke, the whole party was just disgusting. But I feel that nick, so disingenuous, was the most disgusting of all.
ReplyDelete-- Nathan R.
Chapter 3
ReplyDeleteIn this chapter, we meet Gatsby for the first time. After reading the descriptions of his luxurious house and fancy party, I was expecting Gatsby to be a snobby, drunken, rich man with no concern to anyone else. However, he turns out to be a very low key down to earth guy. We still don't know much about him, but I am interested in finding out who he really is. His private talk with Jordan Baker raises another mystery that could possibly reveal something important about Gatsby later on.
CHAPTER 3
ReplyDeleteI found it funny how many strange characters flood the Gatsby estate, and how little their oddness affects Jordan and Nick. Gatsby is also a bit weird, almost like a super hero in disguise. I think Gatsby may be involved in something far beyond the west egg. This novel is beginning to start up and its beginning to capture the feeling of the 20's, with politically instability, art and culture clashes and a complete upheaval of American society.
-- Nathan R
CHAPTER 3
ReplyDeleteHaha Nathan just voiced my thoughts, albeit in rich vocabulary ;)
I find it horrible that these lousy people attend a party without being invited, gossip about their host, get wasted with alcohol, and argue like pathetic couples.
Nick is also a hypocrite, because he said that he was "inclined to reserve all judgements" in chapter 1 but he is shown to be judgmental.
Chapter 3
ReplyDeleteGatsby does seem to be a mystery. From the beginning the impression is garnered that he's a tacky nouveau-rich young guy. However, when Nick finally meets him, he seems completely charismatic and at ease in his grand mansion, and even more so at his grand parties. He seems like the type who would have been surrounded his whole life by elegance and affluence. Like Nathan, I thought the party was disgusting and soulless. I can't really put my finger on it, but it gave me a terrible feeling.
Like Amanda, I originally thought that Gatsby seemed as though he had always had money, but what Jordan said really resonated with me: that she didn't really believe Gatsby went to Oxford. After that, I started thinking of him as a remnant of the "rags to riches" era. Maybe that's why he doesn't fit in with the others at the party - he's an outside to their care-free, leisurely world.
ReplyDeleteChapter 3
ReplyDeleteI feel like there are two sides to Nick. Sometimes he deems himself as inferior and points out other peoples greatness. However, he also has a sort of cocky side to him. For instance, when he explains that he is one of the only honest people he knows, and that he was one of the only people really invited to the party. I look forward to seeing which side of Nick we will see more of.
Henry
Chapter 3
ReplyDeleteThere seems to be a lot of eye-related references so far in the book, especially the eyes of Dr. Eckelburg and "Owl Eyes." Perhaps this is to draw our attention to a potential theme of the book - a look at perspectives? We've talked a bit in class about Nick's perspective, so maybe the references to eyes are emphasizing the importance of perspective.
I am still wondering what is wrong with Gatsby. Though he isnt quite so snobby he still lives in fantastic luxury and seems to be wealthier than the East Eggers. I wonder what it is that a) he lives in West Egg and b) why he lives in relative seclusion, did he choose to? was he forced to?
ReplyDeleteDan M
The part where the butler calls Miss Baker in to see Gatsby was a little strange. And then later when she comes out, she "tantalizes" Nick with what she says. It made me really curious about what Gatsby said to her in the library. Also, that scene shows a different side of Gatsby, where he isn't carefully choosing his words, but is actually quite engaged in his conversation until he reaches the public's eye.
ReplyDeleteChapter 3
ReplyDeleteI'm wondering what other settings the book will have other than parties. Of course, the party in chapter 2 was different; it was more low-key. But I'm curious as to how else we'll see characters' personalities shine through.
And I also thought Gatsby would act proud of how evidently rich he is. I would think that someone who throws lavish parties would be a snob. Apparently not!
It's funny how no one seemed to know what gatsby looked like when they were at his house. Why did he invite people he doesn't know?
ReplyDeleteGatsby so far does not seem to feel like the person Nick makes him out to be in the beginning of the story. He seems to be a little overly confident but genuinely tries to connect with people. For example when he talks to Nick about being in the army. Also the way he doesn't necessarily join in at his parties is quite interesting and reveals that he may be a little more reserved than we expect.
ReplyDeleteOn Chapter 3
ReplyDeleteGatsby is key example of the modernist of idea of having a lot more than just at the surface. It is especially interesting how Gatsby just seems to observe his guests. It seems like he is having a party almost just for the sake of having a party, but there must be more.
Chapter 3
ReplyDeleteNick might be honest like he says he is but thats only because he is so strangely emotionally detached from everything. We don't know if he enjoys to hang out with such awful people, we don't know how he feels about their behavior, we don't know how he feels about going to Gatsby's party, and why he stays so long, and we don't know why he apparently "loves" Jordan. He's giving us many facts but Nick's motives remain unbelievably unclear.
during chapter two we meet more and more character during the party scene, the two couple seemed really awkward because they don't fit with each other. I feel like Nick has some feelings for Jordan Baker but is too shy to show it, or maybe he is waiting for the right moment to do it. I still can't believe Tom actually broke Myrtle's nose. That's ridiculous, I mean how can Myrtle still have feelings toward Tom after that. Wow. Hopefully we learn more about Gatsby in the later chapters.
ReplyDeleteWith the introduction of Gatsby, the character proves himself to be quite different than other people in the book and even more mysterious, with his habit of throwing parties for complete strangers whom he just watches, and strange mannerisms when speaking. His private conversation with Jordan compounds this.
ReplyDelete(Chapter 3)
In chapter 3 I was really intrigued by Jordan saying "I like large parties. They're so intimate. At small parties there isn't any privacy" This is statement is really ironic. Usually you would think of huge groups at big parties and not being able to have a moment to yourself. I'm not sure exactly what Jordan means but I think it has to do with everyone knowing every detail of each other's lives in their social circle. Larger social circles make it less likely that everyone knows whats going on in ones personal life.
ReplyDeleteCH. 3
ReplyDeleteI agree with Cody and what he was saying. Gatsby seems to be somewhat of a mystery to the reader and I assume that he will remain to be a strange and mysterious character. I thought it was interesting how he seemed different from everyon else at the party. This was sort of like Nick in the previous chapter.
-Sydney
I find it interesting that Gatsby maintains a very low profile and does not drink at his own parties. Instead, he prefers to watch and make sure everyone is having a good time. What does this tell us about his feelings for being wealthy? Is he modest and extravagant at the same time? He calls everyone "old sport," and maybe this is a hint that he is actually trying to be on everyone's "level." -- Rohan
ReplyDeleteIn Chapter 3 i really liked the scene where Gatsby and Nick meet. Its funny and its also what Ive been waiting for in the book. The more Nick talks about Gatsby and describes him the more I like him, like the way he tells us that Gastby would just stand on the steps and watch his parties to see if people were enjoying themselves. Gatsby seems like a good guy so far and Im interested to see what happens between Nick and him in the future.
ReplyDeleteI am quite confused on why Tom would be "okay with" showing Nick who his lover was. Isnt Tom's wife the cousin of Nick and isnt having another lover while being married not acceptable. Wouldn't he expect Nick to be against this affair and therefore lead to him having a negative oulook on Tom?
ReplyDeleteAndrew Chan
I agree with what Layla said about Chapter 2. I think that Myrtle is just putting on these pretenses of being satisphied with Tom where in reality she just wants to show that she can, and deserves to be, part of the upper class instead of stuck as the wife of a garage owner. Myrtle got into an argument with Tom and he broke her nose- this may show that Tom, who we were told has a temper, might even be abusive, but seemingly only to Myrtle (or previous mistresses). I don't think Myrtle will complain because she picks the lifestyle over her true happiness. That's what I see from what we've read. - Olga
ReplyDeleteChapter 3
ReplyDeleteWhat I liked about this chapter was that it both transcends the era it takes place in, but also describes the lifestyle of the rich and influential in this point of time. The wealthy lifestyle and the wasteful, riotous moments are the ones that are applicable to now. I thought the part with the drunk drivers was pretty funny and pretty close to something I might find in a book written in and about our generation. The parts where it felt more dated was with the forced polite conversation and where a husband picks his wife up over his shoulder to make her leave a party, or a wife nags her husband to keep him away from the younger women, which came off a little sexist to me, but may just be a representation of the sexism of that era and not necessarily Fitzgerald's beliefs.