Thursday, January 19, 2012
The Great Gatsby and Symbolism
We have been introduced to various symbols preceding the study of The Great Gatsby. One of those symbols relates to the decay and desolation of The Valley of Ashes which most often is associated with Myrtle Wilson in the novel. We know her residence symbolically relates to Myrtle's amoral character; however, let's not just pass this assessment on to the female gender. What about Tom? Even though he does not reside in The Valley of Ashes, doesn't he spend enough time there? How might this symbolically relate to Tom's character too? Discuss the use of symbolism as you complete reading up through Chapter 6. Discuss your ideas about The Valley of Ashes as a symbol and also choose any one of the other symbols on which to expand your critical response.
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The Valley of Ashes to me sounds like the trench you see in The Lion King. You know the scene where Scar tricks Simba into waiting in that desolate trench, and then all the wildebeests start stampeding. Remember how barren it was? Remember how the only life there was a small tree and Simba himself? The Valley of Ashes is sort of like that, except for of course it's not in an animated Disney film with fictional mammals. The Valley of Ashes is a "grotesque" and "crumbling" place which resembles the dark and lifeless parts of the book. Myrtle, the mistress of Tom, is often associated with this place. She is related to it mostly because of all the darkness and destruction she causes in the marriage of Tom and Daisy. Daisy knows about Myrtle, which makes her very unhappy. In turn, this makes Tom and Daisy together very unhappy as well. Although, not all of the place can be put on Myrtle herself; cheating goes both ways. Placing blame on one person in the affair is not correct. Each person has to be responsible for the consequences of their actions, but that's just Tom's problem; he isn't. Tom acts shamelessly in his relationship with Myrtle, and never once tries to hide it from the public. In Tom's whole life he has never had to be accountable for his actions, so why should he now? He does not think at all how this will affect his life. He merely does this to satisfy his needs, which are clearly not being met by Daisy herself.
ReplyDeleteThe Valley of Ashes relating to Tom is a clear indication of his internal death. The more time he spends in this "powdery air" the more his soul dies. He may not reside there, but each time he goes there into that darkness he internally starts to decay just like the Valley of Ashes externally decays. He's being led into the darkness. The Valley of Ashes in its name itself is relating to darkness where as Daisy's name refers to the light and happiness of a relationship he used to have before he crushed it with his affair. Once again, Tom has no consideration for his actions.
I think, expanding on the idea of names themselves, have a symbolic meaning in the book. Myrtle is a sort of strange name that you don't hear quite that often. When put in juxtaposition with "Valley of Ashes," "Myrtle" sort of coincides with that. A mistress named "Petunia" sounds a lot less destructive and dark than the name "Myrtle." Daisy's name also has significance like mentioned above. Things thought of upon hearing the name are things like "spring" and "light" and "happiness." Daisy is the happiness and life of Gatsby's life, and has been for many years. Daisy was the happiness in Tom's life before he started seeing Myrtle. Her name here is referring to the happiness felt in each person's individual lives. Jay Gatsby is a perfect name for the sort of man that he is. He is depicted as a very wealthy, tan man who likes to wear all white with silver and gold. He lives in that strange, yet grand house, and he throws this magnificent parties where you don't actually have to be invited to attend. Celebrities and producers all come to these parties. "Gatsby" is a very fitting name for the kind of man he is portrayed as. A more common name like "Smith" or "Jackson" would not sound nearly as fitting as "Gatsby." I think Fitzgerald used the names of his characters and places to depict the right kind of imagery and essence of each character to fit into the story. An author doesn't just name his characters because he or she likes the name, they do it so they have some sort of symbolic meaning or significance to the story, just like Fitzgerald does with "The Great Gatsby."
Sophie - you mention the "idea of names [that] have a symbolic meaning in the book." Did you think to check out the meaning of "Myrtle" since you say it coincides with the Valley of Ashes? I just checked it out on one of the baby name sites where one can get a meaning of a name. I see that "Myrtle" is of Latin origin. "It is a botanical and nature name based on the evergreen shrub that was sacred to Venus as a symbol of love. First used in the 1850s." Don't know if we can make anything of that but sometimes it is valuable to figure out whether or not an author has chosen names to symbolize certain ideas. When I think of it, Myrtle is the opposite of "love" - she represents the trashy side of town - thus, Fitzgerald accurately puts her in the Valley of Ashes. This symbolic gesture reminds the reader that "love" is not part of the equation with her and Tom. He is using her for his own pleasure; there is no love. Interestingly, if we were to make some meaning out of the definition, I wonder if we could say that since her name is "botanical" and a "nature name," it is possible to say that Myrtle uses her base instincts, her natural need for attention and male affection even though it is void of love. Perhaps. Or possibly by stating this, we are forcing something to work. It is something to think about.
ReplyDeleteAs we read the Great Gatsby we become familiar with the characters and the various settings. One of these settings is the Valley of Ashes. This is an industrial wasteland, not a place you want to be. This is an important symbol in the book, especially when it comes to the character Myrtle Wilson. She is Tom’s mistress. The valley of Ashes is a symbol of moral decay. An easy example of this is Myrtle’s relationship with Tom. Myrtle first lies to Mr. Wilson to leave with Tom. Mr. Wilson is totally oblivious of what is really going on which shows that The Wilsons do not have a healthy marriage. Myrtle leaves with Tom without really caring about her husband. Tom is also becoming morally corrupt as he visits the valley of ashes. His wonderful wife, Daisy, knows about Tom having another girl and Mrs. Wilson knows about Daisy yet nothing is communicated between them even though they are both associated with Tom. So, by Myrtle ruining her marriage to be with Tom, Tom ruins his marriage to Daisy. As the story progresses Gatsby spends more time with Daisy. So, everyone is cheating on each other, this is moral decay. Symbolism is used in a variety of ways throughout the book. The “big eyes” on the poster as Tom enters the valley of ashes symbolizes that somebody is watching, or that somebody knows what is going on. I personally think this could almost relates to God’s great eyes watching as Tom and Myrtle travel throughout the sinful valley of ashes. Also the names in the book relate to the characters’ characteristics. Another symbol in the book was Tom’s appearance. As Daisy says, “a brute of a man, a great, big, hulking physical specimen…” Tom has an aggressive attitude, and is bossy. He tells Daisy not to say “hulking” and tells Myrtle not to say “Daisy.” He is proven aggressive by his actions toward Myrtle when she did not stop saying “Daisy.” Tom is selfish because he goes after another women, even though he already has a wife; apparently one woman is not enough for him. Also in one of Tom’s conversations, he mentioned how women should not be free to roam about, showing he was possessive of Daisy. Overall his “big, hulking” physical features relate to his character, he is an aggressive, demanding and selfish man.
ReplyDeleteSophie: One of the main uses of symbolism you mentioned in your blog was the names. Myrtle is a strange, darker name. When I think of the name Myrtle, I think of the ghost moaning Myrtle in Harry potter. Also Daisy is a flower, a name. Daisy, as a character name, is kind and free spirited, much like a flower. Gatsby is almost a mysterious name. He is a mysterious man; many of his partiers have wild stories about him. None of the characters in the story, accept Gatsby himself, really know what he does for a living. I also like your comparison of the valley of ashes to the trench in lion king.
ReplyDeleteElizabeth,
ReplyDeleteI think that you did a great job on finding the symbolism in the book. What I enjoyed the most was how you related the eyes on the billboard to how someone is always watching Tom while he is cheating with Myrtle and how it could symbolize that God is also watching them. I can think of many times when pictures of eyes represent that things or people are being watched. One good example would be how in the country Turkey there is a custom of the evil eye. There are many different beliefs with what the evil eye does in different cultures, but in Turkey it is customary for houses to have at least one evil eye hanging in the house to help ward off the evil spirits. Some believe it is always watching the people in the household so this helps them to follow the rules. One thing in your blog that I thought of differently of is how Daisy is cheating on Tom with Gatsby. When I read the events that happened when Daisy first came to Nick’s house in my mind I did not see it as cheating. Yes I realized that she is married still but after I read that Tom was cheating on her to me the marriage was over. I do agree that all of this cheating relates to the decay of the industrial waste land, but it shows it in a humanly form, and something the decay of love is worse than any industrial decay.
Throughout the first six chapters there have many uses of symbolism. The Valley of Ashes is one of them. The Valley of Ashes is really like the dark side of town, similar to ghettos. This place is very desolate. The inhabitants of the area are not wealthy. One of the inhabitants is Myrtle Wilson. Myrtle is married to George Wilson, yet she is Tom Buchanan’s mistress. Therefore, the Valley of Ashes symbolizes her moral decay. She is not even really in love with Tom. She really only wants the attention. She needs to feel wanted. The Valley of Ashes does not only symbolize Myrtle’s moral decay, it also symbolizes Tom’s moral decay. As my mother always told me it takes two to fight. It also takes to in an affair. Tom is just as much part of the problem as Myrtle. Due to the environment that each of them actually live, the moral decay of Myrtle seems worse and more obvious than Tom. As we read further in the novel, we find that Tom’s moral decay really is not as bad as Myrtle’s (in my opinion). For anyone who has read the seventh chapter may know what I am referring to.
ReplyDeleteThe weather in chapter five is also symbolic. It is very rainy and windy at first. I think that this symbolizes the new relationship that is being blown into Daisy and Gatsby’s lives. However, the rain decreases and increases throughout Daisy and Gatsby’s meeting. As the meeting goes on the weather seems to clear up. Just like the meeting with Gatsby and Daisy. Their encounter is extremely awkward at first, but as the meeting goes on they begin to connect again. Nick leaves to go home while they sit hand in hand. This new (well kind of new) relationship gets blown in with the wind. As the sun comes out their reunion reaches its highlight. Fitzgerald uses the weather in other parts of his novel as well. Understanding the symbolism of the weather can enable the reader to be more engaged in the story.
Sophie and Elizabeth,
ReplyDeleteI did not really think about the names themselves. The names of the characters help you to realize their true qualities. Now that I have read your blog, I have been able to think about the characters in relation to their names. This insight can definitely make a reader understand the story better. It probably allows readers to predict what will happen next in the story sooner than those that do not. Both of you most likely had a better understanding of the characters, since you interpreted their names.
Elizabeth,
I like your relation of the big eyes on the poster to God’s eyes. It was seems so true especially since that is where Myrtle and Tom normally meet. It shows that someone is watching, even if it is not God. I like your idea of God’s eyes because I know that God is always watching us, but I do not think that Fitzgerald meant that they were God’s eyes. I think that he meant them to be Daisy’s eyes. She knew what was going on with Tom and Myrtle. Once Tom began down this path, she followed soon after.
Dr. Pam,
I am glad that you said “we are forcing something to work” because I believe that that occurs very often when reading literature. I think that readers put words and ideas in the author’s mouth. Not every sentence has a meaning. Some authors mean literally what they write, no symbolism about it. And how do we, as readers, know what the author means, we don’t. At least we do not know for sure anyway. I believe that teachers force their students to believe what everyone else believes about a story. Students are forced to answer opinionated question with concrete answers that do not exist. I do not believe that any person knows exactly what the other is feeling. It does not matter if most think that the author means one thing; others need to be able to share their opinion. Now on the other hand I understand that there are some answers that are way off topic and are not acceptable, however this is not typically the problem. People are allowed to have different opinions concerning laws, for example. I know that Elizabeth did her paper on the right to bare arms, and she was entitled to her opinion. I am not sure why we force others to analyze literature when we ourselves do not really even know the true answer. I know for a fact that other high school students feel the same way.
The Valley of Ashes is described as an ugly place, not one in which one would want to live. But in the barren place is where we first meet Myrtle. Often time the place where you first meet someone or the context in which you meet someone is how they are remembered in your mind. For example if someone was to meet a criminal in jail behind bars that idea that they were bad enough to be entered into jail would be in that persons mind at they would always remember that that person had done something so bad. Even if the criminal turned his life around some people would still see them a bad person. The same goes the other way. If someone met a nice smiling lady who was helpful and caring and then found out the next day that they committed a crime it would be hard to see them as a criminal. This is what happened with Myrtle even before she is described as readers we know what the place that she lives in is like so we immediately relate that to her character. We learned how bad of a place the Valley of Ashes was so we think how could a good respectful person live in such a place? The same goes with Tom we learn that he was a football player. This is great symbolization. Football players are often characterized as rough and tough and think that they are better than everyone else especially women. This symbolizes what Tom is going to be like to Daisy and the other women in his wife, Myrtle. The Valley of Ashes also does a great job of symbolizing Tom’s life too. At one point the Valley of Ashes was a booming industry that brought money and prosperity to so many people but because of different events everything came to a stop leaving nothing but destruction. This is the same with Tom at one point his life was great, he loved Daisy and his family but them because of Myrtle this all changed and destruction in his life also changed. This is symbolized greatly in the Valley of Ashes. Other symbolism that appears in the book is the parties that Gatsby has. He has all of these people over but yet he does not seem to care, he is usually nowhere to be found, always in the house of taking important calls. This symbolizes the loneliness that Gatsby feels. He has so many material things, but because he does not have love or Daisy something is missing. We can see this best when Daisy goes to one of Gatsby’s parties. He seems to have the most fun with her even though there are so many other famous people. He also is the most concerned about how much fun she had at the party and no one else. The party is like his life there are so many people there just like how he has so many material things but none of these people can make him feel like Daisy does.
ReplyDeleteMorgan
ReplyDeleteI really like your point in how you say that Myrtle does not really love Tom she just needs to be liked. I think that this is made more evident because of their two totally different living situations. Myrtle feels more important because she is with someone who is so rich and such well known man. I think that Myrtle actually wants people to find out about her affair so that she can prove that someone so important can love her. But I do not agree with how you say that Tom’s moral decay is not as bad as Myrtles. Tom has such a great life with a lovely wife and even a daughter how can he want anything more? Myrtle on the other hand does not have much but a husband that does not really care and a car garage. She has so much less so she so she has less to lose than does Tom who has so much to lose. But however I do enjoy how you used the weather as symbolism, I never thought of it but now as I read the rest of the story I will pay more attention to the weather.
Taylor: I liked your comparison with the “person in jail” image. Also I forgot Tom played football and that furthers the point that he is a rough, aggressive person. You also made a good point about Gatsby’s parties. He has so many parties yet it never seems like he actually attends them, he stays isolated from the other guests by phone calls. He could care less who is there until Daisy comes. All he is concerned about is Daisy. I like your point about the parties symbolizing his loneliness.
ReplyDeleteSymbolism plays a major role in any novel. Some symbols are easily noticed, while others are somewhat discreet. Those who can read past the words themselves find a deeper understanding within the context of a novel. Hidden meanings behind the text make a good story a great story.
ReplyDeleteIn “The Great Gatsby”, Fitzgerald mentioned the Valley of Ashes. It is described as being located between East and West Eggs and is the industrial dumping grounds. It not only symbolizes the dirtiness of the two Eggs, but also the characters with which it is associated.
Tom Buchanan and his mistress, Myrtle, are easily comparable to the Valley of Ashes. Tom’s morality is unclean considering that he has an extramarital affair. He feels no guilt in leaving his wife, Daisy, for a “cruddy” Myrtle. The description of Myrtle leads a reader into believing that she, too, is “dirty” person. She also engages in an unclean marriage with her husband, George. The characterization of both Tom and Myrtle are directly comparable with that of the Valley of Ashes. They seem like the garbage that is dumped there.
Dr. T. J. Eckleberg’s eyes also play into the theme of the Valley of Ashes. The giant eyes painted upon the billboard overlook the valley and seem to symbolize the eyes of God. While Tom and Myrtle gallivant through their affair, believing no one to know about it, the eyes are always watching. Their sinful acts are acknowledged by God, the seer of all.
The green light at the end of the dock symbolizes the hopes and dreams of Gatsby. He reaches out towards the light, but it soon disappears. This can relate to everyday life. The “light at the end of the tunnel” can have adverse meanings depending on a situation. Seeing a light in a darkened place can cause a person to believe there is hope for the future.
Daisy’s own name is a symbolism in itself. “Daisy” is a very soft, gentle name for a woman. Readers often associate her with having a loving, caring nature. Flowers bloom, but flowers die. I think Daisy, being referred to as a flower, will not die, but will see her pedals begin to fade as she finds out about Tom and Myrtle’s affair.
As I read through the rest of the novel, I hope to pick up on other accounts of symbolism. I believe the story will mean much more to me if I understand why events occur.
Taylor,
ReplyDeleteI like your idea of the criminal and the judgments people make. I believe this to happen in my life as well. Sometimes, I will hear something about a person, and automatically characterize them into a certain category. Until I actually meet the person, I can formulate all kinds of different views. Most times, I see a complete opposite personality than was described to me. This has occurred more than once this year already. I have become friends with a few people that I never thought I would even talk to. I am so glad that judgments can change.
I also liked your football analogy. I find that to be very true as well. We can definitely see the way professional athletes behave, especially with football. They are mostly looking for attention, an attention they usually receive, but is that always a good thing? I think people notice when an athlete deserves praise for a good action on the field or court, but also when their personality is a little too demanding of the spotlight.
Elizabeth,
ReplyDeleteI really like how you compared the Valley of Ashes to the marriages of Tom and Daisy. I never really thought of it the way you did. I do believe that by "sneaking around" with each other, the marriages are becoming desolate like the valley.
The "hulking" description of Tom is another great idea which you have pointed out. He wants to seem more powerful than everyone else, but he often feels belittled when Daisy refers to him as such. He controls the way Daisy speaks of Myrtle and Myrtle of Daisy. He feels like he can manipulate both women so that he can get the most out of his relationships.
While reading The Great Gatsby we find that setting plays a very important role in each chapter and in the development of each character. Whether it be The ritzy East Egg, the newly rich West Egg, or the dirty and grimy Valley Ashes setting is extremely important. The characters residence affects the way that we perceive them. Myrtle lives in The Valley of Ashes, and like we all know it symbolizes Myrtle’s amoral character. I believe it also symbolizes her husband, Wilsons lack of enthusiasm and passion. Not only does The Valley of Ashes represent the Wilson’s decay, I believe it touches everyone that spends an adequate amount of time there, for example, Tom. Because Tom picked Myrtle to have an affair with I believe this also symbolizes his own moral decay and his own unfaithfulness within his marriage to Daisy. Myrtle almost pulls Tom, who is rich and influential, into her own decaying and dirty society. Tom, Myrtle, and Mr. Wilson all display an effect from The Valley of Ashes by ruining sacred matrimony. Tom ruins his marriage with Daisy by having an affair with Myrtle. Myrtle ruins her marriage with Mr. Wilson by having an affair with Tom, and Mr. Wilson ruins both of their marriages by idly standing by. The symbolism of moral decay and low class society represented in The Valley of Ashes is not the only use of symbolism in The Great Gatsby. I noticed a great symbolism in the weather. Fitzgerald uses a great amount of symbolism regarding the weather of Daisy and Gatsby’s first meeting after five years. When the first meet again the weather is pouring down rain and very depressing. This shows that the meeting will be awkward and uncomfortable, and so it was. Gatsby was at first very upset about the way the meeting started out, and regretted his decision to even see her again. The weather then clears up and becomes sunny, which to me shows that the meeting is taking a better turn, and so it did. Symbolism is a very key aspect of The Great Gatsby and makes it very interesting to read.
ReplyDeleteThe Valley of Ashes has a lot of meaning to the book. It is where bad things happen and moral standards are forgotten. Myrtle resides there, and she has an affair, right under her husbands nose. She lies to him all of the time and doesn’t think twice about it. Also, the fact that Tom goes there to meet Myrtle shows his moral decay. He is married to Daisy and has a wonderful life, but he finds more in Myrtle and has an affair with her. The fact that he is in the Valley of Ashes for any period of time shows how quickly he is losing his sense of relationships.
ReplyDeleteAnother symbol is Daisy. Yes she is a character but there is so much symbolism around her. First of all her name is Daisy, which a delicate flower. Also if you look up the meaning of Daisy, it mean’s day’s eye. Which means she is bright and cheerful. Another thing I found very interesting is in Chapter 4, when Nick was talking to Jordan Baker, she tells him that Daisy was always the pretty girl of her town and how every boy wanted an hour with her. It also explains how she dressed in white and had a white car. White is a color of purity, so that shows that Daisy is pure. It also says Daisy never had a drink until the night before her wedding to Tom. To me, that also has some symbolism, possibly that Tom was a bad influence on her in a way. The next thing about Daisy is the green light on the end of her dock. Gatsby looks towards it in the end of Chapter 1. He reaches for it. Green lights are now known as a sign to go. I think this shows that Gatsby is going to “go” for Daisy and try to get her back. It says in Chapter 4, how she was found in her car with him.
The final symbol that I can think of is when Daisy and Gatsby reconnect. It is pouring down rain and actually starts to rain harder when he realizes who it is. I think that shows all of the emotion and sadness that happened before when he went off to the war. However, while they are reconnecting and their love starts to show through again. The sum comes out and shows how things are going to start to get brighter in both of their lives.
Kristin,
ReplyDeleteI never thought about Mr. Wilson's "lack of enthusiasm" being related to the Valley of Ashes, but that is so true! I also agree completel with you about the the characters and lettting their marriages be ruined in the wasteland. It is where unwanted and unimportant objects end up, and their marriages are obviously unimportant and end in the wasteland. I also agree with the fact that the weather is a huge part in this book, if you don't pay attention to it, you might miss a hidden meaning about something. Authors don't go that into depth about something that is not important.
Kristy,
I liked your comparison about Daisy and a flower's petals. However, i disagree with you in the fact that flowers do die, especially in harsh coniditions. Maybe she will not be able to handle the fact that Tom is having an affair and the fun loving, beautiful Daisy will die and leave a depressed person that no one really cares for. However, maybe you are right and like the flower she will just begin to wilt, and not die out completely.
Associating a character with their setting is a great way to remember them and keep them straight. For example, Gatsby lives in West Egg, the part of town that doesn’t really know how to act rich, even though they are. Gatsby tries to hold parties and invite the most popular guests, but he is unhappy and awkward around people. On the other hand Tom is popular, and respected. He has a beautiful wife and seems to be living the American dream. He lives in East Egg, the classier side of town. Then there is Myrtle, living in the run down and socially degrading part of Long Island, the Valley of Ashes. Her husband is Mr. Wilson, an unintelligent man who gets her anything that she wishes. She cheats on him with Tom, and is proud to do so. She is selfish, and always wants her way. Though she is ugly, she is still pushy enough to get another man. She flaunts Tom to anyone who will listen. She is bored with Wilson, and needs excitement. She tries to achieve this by deceiving her husband and not getting caught.
ReplyDeleteTom is guilty also - but no more than Myrtle is. He flaunts his relationship with her also. He has no regrets in betraying his wife. He even introduces Myrtle to Nick, who is Daisy’s cousin and talks to Daisy frequently. Tom is arrogant enough that he thinks that Daisy will not leave him, because of who he is. He is controlling of both Daisy and Myrtle, and needs to feel that he is the dominant alpha. He is a hypocrite, saying to most people he is moral and a gentleman, but to others he is not afraid to show his brutal side.
I also believe that the eyes of Dr. T.J. Eckleberg represent God. The eyes are always watching, and see everything. Also everyone in town basically knows what Tom and Myrtle are doing, though they may not say anything to them personally.
Elizabeth, I liked how you compared Tom’s possessiveness of Daisy and of Myrtle. He tries to control everything that they do, even what they say. He is a control freak, and needs to feel secure. He needs to be on top of everything, and becomes angry when he is not.
Morgan, I really liked your response to “forcing something to work.” I strongly believe what you are saying, in that literature does not have to mean something. Maybe an author used “that word” because he liked how it sounded in the sequence. Maybe it was the only word that he could think of. Too many times people try to jump to conclusions about literature. People try to tear a story apart to find the “hidden truth”, when there is none. Depending on who you talk too, a single story could have a million different meanings. Do we know which one is correct? No, only the author does. If you want to know what the story actually means, then ask the author.
In the Great Gatsby, Fitzgerald uses a very important element of writing. He uses symbolism several times to great success. Using symbolism can really portray to a reader a certain point about a character, an event, or even a setting. From what we have all read so far into the novel, probably the most easily recognizable pieces of symbolism is how Fitzgerald uses the dreadful Valley of Ashes. He uses the valley to really push the point that it is a bad place, and that those who live there, such as Myrtle, and those who just go there often are affected by the negative atmosphere of the place. This is really seen in how Myrtle is having an affair with Tom. Both of these characters are committing negative, amoral acts by having their affair. The overall negative atmosphere of the Valley of Ashes is almost like the perfect breeding ground for such amoral actions because it is so desolate there.
ReplyDeleteThe other main symbol that I myself have really noticed so far in the story has been the weather. When there has been important events happening, the weather has really mirrored the attitude of and/or the atmosphere surrounding the characters and the event taking place. When bad things have been happening the weather has been rainy or stormy. Meanwhile, when good things have happened, the sun has been shining bright, symbolizing the happy mood of the characters. For example, when Daisy and Gatsby begin to really reconnect, they both become overwhelmed by joy and the weather becomes bright and sunny.
So far, there have several key instances where Fitzgerald has used symbolism very well in the novel. I am sure that as we finish reading the rest of the novel we shall find that there are many more such occurrences of symbolism.
Scott,
DeleteFitzgerald is a master at using symbols and signs. We obviously see that in his work. I agree with you concerning the Valley of Ashes relating to Tom and Myrtle. I agree and wrote about how they are comparable. I consider them to be the scum of the society. Your points on the weather are unique and often seen in a all literature, especially Shakespearean literature. In real life, the day is usually better when the weather is nice. I know that I am more inclined to get out of bed or go for a run when the weather is nice. Bad, rainy weather is more than often saddening. The Great Gatsby symbolizes real life and the characters respond like we would (dealing with wealth). Think of wealthy people in real life and compare them with the characters. Are they similar or completely different? These comparisons could prove interesting.
In my opinion, Tom is even more amoral than Myrtle. Not only does he have an affair with Myrtle but also he lies to her as well as daisy. He wants Myrtle, but he wants daisy as well, so he lies to both of them. Just like the popular expression, “he wants to have his cake and eat it too.” He wants to stay in his marriage with Daisy and he wants the affections of Myrtle. For this reason he tells Myrtle that it is against Daisy’s religion to get a divorce, which in untrue. The Valley of Ashes symbolizes the characteristics of darkness, destruction, and amoral actions. The actions of Tom and his moral decay reflect this dark and desolate place just as much, if not more than, the actions of Myrtle. Even though we talked about it briefly in class, I’m going to talk about the symbolism of the green light at the end of Daisy’s dock because it really stood out to me in the chapters I’ve read so far. It plays a big roll and appears repeatedly throughout the story. The light, as well as the color green, stands for a few different things. One of the most important things it stands for is the hopes and dreams of Gatsby. At the beginning of the book when he gazes at it across the water, it is his hope to meet Daisy again. He longs for the present to be more like the past. He wants everything to be like five years ago when he and Daisy were in love. He points out the light again later in the book when Daisy visits his house for the first time. The light is the ultimate symbol of his desire for Daisy, and his desire for the past. In addition, I think it not only stands for his hopes, but also the thing that troubles him most, which is the distance between him and Daisy. The time between the past and the present haunts him because he longs for it so much and I think the light is a symbol of all of these feelings of Gatsby.
ReplyDeleteStephanie,
ReplyDeleteFirst, I would like to say that I had not thought about Daisy as being a symbol, but I agree with what you said. She really is like a symbol. She portrays so much, from purity to even some fragility, shown in my opinion by the bruise that she made a point to show when Nick came over for tea in the beginning chapters and by her own name, Daisy, which is a frail but pretty flower. Also, I like how you touched upon the weather as being symbolic. I too, think that the weather really relates to what is happening in the story.
Kristin,
I really agree with what you said about how where people live in the story really affects our view of them. Whether it is Myrtle living in the Valley of Ashes, or Daisy on East Egg, our perception of characters can really be affected by where they live. Like, when I think of Myrtle I immediately think of a kind of trashy woman because she lives in the desolate, crappy Valley of Ashes. Then when I think of Daisy, I think of this ritzy, somewhat spoiled woman because she lives in the very rich and swanky East Egg.
Maria,
ReplyDeleteI really liked how you threw in that popular phrase "he wants to have his cake and eat it too." I think that was a very avid description of Tom and how he treats Myrtle and Daisy. I also think it was very wise of you to bring up the green light. I do remember we touched on it in class, but what you said about it was very interesting. I like what you said about "his desire for the past." I think that is very well put. The green light is a big piece of symbolism in this novel.
Scott,
I really liked how you opened your blog with a bit of a definition of symbolism. I don't think anyone else really thought of doing that, but it was a good point considering maybe not everyone knows exactly what symbolism is. Just like how Dr. Pam cleared up the difference between a sign and a symbol for us in class the other day. The weather was a good topic to bring up. I always enjoy reading your blogs, they are always well thought out and critical. Keep it up!
Steph,
ReplyDeleteI really liked how you described how the characters themselves could be symbols. I think that symbolism is used in just about every aspect of this book. I feel like I have to really pay attention when I read because every little thing could mean something, or some into play later in the story. I love the symbolism of the weather because it really did seem to reflect their feelings. When Gatsby is a nervous wreck it is miserable out, but as soon as they became reacquainted and more comfortable with each other the sun shone through the rain.
Scott,
I agree with you that Fitzgerald uses symbolism very well. His use of symbolism throughout the story gives it more importance. Rather than being a story involving a few people, symbolism turns it into more than that. The symbolism in this book relates it to all of society and gives it more meaning. The symbolism allows the reader to relate more to the story because the symbols, unlike signs, can be interpreted in many different ways. The story becomes more personal when the reader can make their own thoughts play into it by determining what they think the meaning of the symbol is.
The Valley of Ashes is a forsaken land of decay in The Great Gatsby. This characteristic matches not only the area but also the inhabitants. Myrtle is an amoral woman who is having an affair with another woman’s husband. She holds no regrets for the relationship she has developed with Tom, Daisy’s husband. Tom spoils Myrtle with material possessions, and she loves the attention and imaginary wealth. By being with Tom Myrtle feels important, sophisticated, and powerful. She developed this selfish relationship after her husband, George, no longer lived up to her expectations. She believed George was a gentleman, and he very well might have been. However, the Valley of Ashes brought decay to his life making him a weak man who lost control of his wife and succumbed to his wife’s will easily. In addition, he was struggling to maintain his business and health. On the other end of her twisted relationship was Tom. He did not live in the Valley of Ashes; however, he visited often for “business” at George’s store to schedule meetings with Myrtle. This, too, is symbolic of the decay of Tom in the book. He had a relationship with his wife Daisy that had its ups and downs, but still managed to stay strong. Then he met Myrtle and continued visiting her in the valley for his own personal gain, until his relationship with his wife crumbled leaving them with nothing to do but quarrel. The Valley of Ashes is a strong physical symbol of the characters in the book, however it is predictable. The weather in the story is less so. People have been trying to understand weather patterns for years. It is constantly fluctuating and can cause destruction or restoration to a region. The same can be true of emotions. The weather in chapter five is symbolic of the emotions of Gatsby and Daisy as they re-acquaintance with each other. The rain, wind, and clouds can be symbolic of Gatsby’s feelings of doubt and unease when he talked to Daisy again. They were both embarrassed and wanting to hide like the sun hiding behind the clouds. After conversing for a while they became more comfortable with one another again and had less to hide and be self-conscious of, as the weather showed when the sun came out. When laying in the sun one feels warmth and happiness like they were experiencing in each other’s presence. The Great Gatsby is dripping with symbolism one has only to open it up and imagine a little.
ReplyDeleteLinnea, I loved your comparison on the characters to their settings. I actually hadn’t thought of it that way before. I’m sure if that comes up on a test you’ll have just saved my butt. I also agree with what you said about Myrtle; how she will, “[flaunt] Tom to anyone who will listen.” The comparison of Dr. T.J. Eckleberg to God is an interesting idea as well. This symbolism becomes more conceivable after the accident in chapter 7 (I’m not going to spoil it for anyone who isn’t that far). Great job, Linnea, keep reading your insight is very intellectual.
ReplyDeleteStephanie, your symbolism of Daisy to her name is very strong. I enjoyed everything about it. I feel like her white dress itself could even be the petals of a daisy and her blonde hair the center. Also, comparing the color white to purity is a common color for us to know by now, after many years of religious education. Another comparison to Daisy and her name is the common children’s’ game we used to play with them. You would pull a petal and say he/she loves me and pull another saying he/she loves me not. This can be symbolic of how Daisy leaves Gatsby questioning if he is her one and only true love or if she loves another.
Symbolism is used frequently in the story of “The Great Gatsby.” It carries the underlying plot in gives the reader information on some things not detailed in the book. As stated by some of my fellow classmates, this is very important and is a great learning tool for us. By being able to pick up on some of the symbolism, we improve our reading experience.
ReplyDeleteThe first time symbolism appears is in the very end of the first chapter. Gatsby stares out across the Long Island Sound to Daisy’s dock where he sees a green light. This green light is very important in setting the tone for the entire story. The light is green, a color that not only represents wealth but also fertility. This is sign of the wealth Daisy has but the ambitions that Gatsby has as well. It is also all the way across the body of water. It is something that, from his position, Gatsby will never reach although he can see it quite plainly.
The light also represents one more key element that is recurring in many of Fitzgerald’s stories. It is symbolic of the American Dream. Something many people of the time in fact strived their whole life for. It was an ambitious idea of self reliance and wealth that made life seem ideal. The green light really depicts all of that. It also shows how Gatsby is so far away from the actual American dream although he life in a posh house and surrounds himself with everything he could possibly need.
The second symbol is the Valley of Ashes. Now, whether or not it really plays in, ashes symbol rebirth or a second life. I believe that the name itself is actually relating to Tom’s second life with Myrtle, an inhabitant of the Valley of Ashes. Just like the phoenix, he casts away everything from his prior life and turns to a new life with Myrtle.
The valley itself has a rather graphic representation. It is a barren wasteland where everything is covered in darkness. In comparison to East and West Egg, it is bereft of any redeeming qualities. As one looks around it, it seems so foreign and useless. It is a symbol of the moral depravation that occurs in its midst. Tom is cheating on Daisy with a valley inhabitant, even though everyone knows. It is the largest symbol of that moral desensitizing.
The eyes of Dr. Eckleberg are symbolic of God’s presence in this empty place. The eyes, faded like God’s presence in their lives, continually watch them. The people below give the eyes little heed, just like they now do God’s will. They watch the sinful act of adultery without any movement. They silently criticize people with their gaze. Nick is a bit disconcerted by them and that is only a contributor to the belief that guilt has affected him.
These are just a few components of the symbolism. It really does play a key role in depicting the story. You can ask any person who has read it about their opinion. Where they will all agree that there is symbolism, the actual answer for what it means will vary. As stated before in class, a symbol can mean many things. This is just my interpretation of what I have seen.
Maria,
ReplyDeleteI really enjoy that you covered the relationships between Tom, Daisy, and Myrtle. Tom really does lie so much because it isn't against Daisy's religion and sometimes I think she'd be happier without him. He does this because he wants to pursue his adulterous behaviours and also keep the wife that is a symbol of social status. I find Tom to be the symbol of real sin in the story; he lies to others frequently, he is often found drinking, he is adulterous, he hates others for their differences, and is just generally a brute. I also love that you focused on how Gatsby loved Daisy for so long. He only wants things to return to the way they once were so he can be happy. But as I stated in my post, the American Dream is really unattainable for him and so is his 'golden girl.'
Maura,
I really like that you focused on all the types of decay and how many changes there are. Myrtle so easily discards George and uses him. Yet she reveres Tom. She really is focused only on the social aspect and what she can use them for. I also enjoy that you focused on the significance of the weather. I actually missed that. I can now clearly see what you mean. Thanks for pointing that out!
I personally find the symbolism in a story to be my favorite part of the story. Often I find myself reading a sentence towards the end of a book and remembering what it refers back to from earlier and the story and get excited that I noticed it. Symbols really make the story better. In the Great Gatsby the very first symbolism used in the story is the green light that is at the end of the dock. Green to most of us symbolizes either go or money. Money was more obvious to me. I think that it is very apparent to the American Dream many had at the time, striving for wealth and success. I also picked up right away on Daisy’s name. She is described as very delicate and fragile girl, just as the flower. The name Myrtle also seems symbolic to me, I think it almost is like a way of saying that she is underestimated in her potential in her affair with Tom. This brings me into the symbol of the Valley of Ashes. The Valley of Ashes not only is the bad side of town but also is the place of immoral decisions. Myrtle and Tom’s affair reaffirms that. The ashes make the town, bleak and drab, the opposite of vital. The Valley of Ashes is the most important symbol I think, as it shows that’s where the majority of the corruptness comes from.
ReplyDeleteLaura,
DeleteYour skepticism of the symbols is intriguing. Knowing and understanding these are crucial and if you're already questioning them, then that's good. I never thought of the green light symbolizing money. The lives of these people revolve around money and in Gatsby's case, it draws him closer. Now dealing with the Valley of Ashes, think about how shallow and degrading they are. They (Myrtle and Tom) both cheat on their spouses. Then think of how useless the Valley of Ashes. It is all the refuse from the city. Could this also include Myrtle and Tom? I discuss this in my post. Also, think about the differences between East Egg and West Egg and the people that live there. I'm sure this will be crucial later in the story, dealing with Jay Gatsby, Daisy, Tom, and the narrator. Keep your enthusiasm for figuring out the symbols cause that is something I sometimes lack. Nevertheless, keep up the good work.
Sophie,
ReplyDeleteI love that you compared the Lion King to the Valley of Ashes, while I myself didn’t make the connection, Laira did and we discussed it, totally agreeing with your points. Even if the Valley of Ashes is hyena free. I also like that you pointed out the symbolism in the name Gatsby, it does fit well, good blog!
Morgan,
I’m so glad you mentioned the weather playing a part in the story. I think that the dry summer I first thought it was could also be a hot summer representing the passion between the couples in the story throughout the book. Also “moral decay” is a great way to phrase what the Valley of Ashes symbolized.
On the surface, The Great Gatsby is a short, quaint story concerning the lives of the rich and the poor. We follow their lives, exploits, and troubles. As we read on, we soon discover that the character’s attributes are related to their surroundings. This is no simple coincidence. Fitzgerald’s intent was for the reader to engross themselves into the story and to find the symbolic meanings. The characters and the symbols complement each other well, providing for additional treasure of the novel.
ReplyDeleteThe Valley of Ashes is basically dreaded decay. Useless and refuted, this area is not easily desired. The Valley of Ashes is located in between West Egg and New York City. Many readers, including myself, believe that the Valley of Ashes best describes Myrtle Wilson and her shallow decay. They both are ‘down in the dumps’. Myrtle manipulates her husband and sneaks behind his back in order to be Tom’s lover. You could say that ‘she wears the pants’ in the relationship. Cheating on one’s own spouse if a very low blow and shows the worthlessness of a person. Myrtle does it without looking back. Myrtle is sad with her current situation with George so she makes the awful decision to cheat. At first, this appears to be a good decision on her part but as time goes on, she recesses into the depths of the Valley of Ashes. This does not necessarily happen physically, but definitely figuratively. The Valley of Ashes is everything that society does not want, so they throw it away. Myrtle Wilson is everything that society does not want, so they throw her away. Life does not look good for her, especially since her ‘lover’ Tom treats her poorly. It is truly a shame in Myrtle’s case. Tom becomes bored with his ravishing life and moves on to an affair. That is a big mistake! He has decayed internally with his rash decisions especially since he has to stoop down to the level violence to gain pleasure. It is disgusting to say the least. In my opinion they both belong ‘in the Valley of Ashes’ where all other refuse resides. There is little to no life in the Valley of Ashes and little to no life remaining in Myrtle and Tom.
The geographic locations also are symbolic of the people living there. Residents living in both East Egg and West Egg are rich and they show it! The largest difference is the fact that East Egg residents inherited their wealth and West Egg residents were self made. One that lives in West Egg are rich but unfashionable, they know not how to properly use their wealth. By knowing where a person resides, the reader can figure out how they flaunt their wealth. Jay Gatsby lives in West Egg while the Buchanan’s reside in East Egg. Knowing where they live gives an acute hint to their personality. This is a good use of symbolism by Fitzgerald.
By implementing symbolism, Fitzgerald can portray characters and events more deeply and with a greater meaning. It surely makes us think and justify their characteristics. At least for me, symbolism makes the reading more interesting. It makes me think more and use my critical reading skills. Fitzgerald does not lack in his uses of symbolism in his work The Great Gatsby.
On the surface, The Great Gatsby is a short, quaint story concerning the lives of the rich and the poor. We follow their lives, exploits, and troubles. As we read on, we soon discover that the character’s attributes are related to their surroundings. This is no simple coincidence. Fitzgerald’s intent was for the reader to engross themselves into the story and to find the symbolic meanings. The characters and the symbols complement each other well, providing for additional treasure of the novel.
ReplyDeleteThe Valley of Ashes is basically dreaded decay. Useless and refuted, this area is not easily desired. The Valley of Ashes is located in between West Egg and New York City. Many readers, including myself, believe that the Valley of Ashes best describes Myrtle Wilson and her shallow decay. They both are ‘down in the dumps’. Myrtle manipulates her husband and sneaks behind his back in order to be Tom’s lover. You could say that ‘she wears the pants’ in the relationship. Cheating on one’s own spouse if a very low blow and shows the worthlessness of a person. Myrtle does it without looking back. Myrtle is sad with her current situation with George so she makes the awful decision to cheat. At first, this appears to be a good decision on her part but as time goes on, she recesses into the depths of the Valley of Ashes. This does not necessarily happen physically, but definitely figuratively. The Valley of Ashes is everything that society does not want, so they throw it away. Myrtle Wilson is everything that society does not want, so they throw her away. Life does not look good for her, especially since her ‘lover’ Tom treats her poorly. It is truly a shame in Myrtle’s case. Tom becomes bored with his ravishing life and moves on to an affair. That is a big mistake! He has decayed internally with his rash decisions especially since he has to stoop down to the level violence to gain pleasure. It is disgusting to say the least. In my opinion they both belong ‘in the Valley of Ashes’ where all other refuse resides. There is little to no life in the Valley of Ashes and little to no life remaining in Myrtle and Tom.
The geographic locations also are symbolic of the people living there. Residents living in both East Egg and West Egg are rich and they show it! The largest difference is the fact that East Egg residents inherited their wealth and West Egg residents were self made. One that lives in West Egg are rich but unfashionable, they know not how to properly use their wealth. By knowing where a person resides, the reader can figure out how they flaunt their wealth. Jay Gatsby lives in West Egg while the Buchanan’s reside in East Egg. Knowing where they live gives an acute hint to their personality. This is a good use of symbolism by Fitzgerald.
By implementing symbolism, Fitzgerald can portray characters and events more deeply and with a greater meaning. It surely makes us think and justify their characteristics. At least for me, symbolism makes the reading more interesting. It makes me think more and use my critical reading skills. Fitzgerald does not lack in his uses of symbolism in his work The Great Gatsby.
As I read through the previous blogs it is easy to see a pattern forming as the easiest form of symbolism to find in the book is the symbol created by the Valley of Ashes. I am sorry that I cannot provide relief from this pattern, as I will write about much of the same. By now we all know that the Valley of Ashes is just simply not a pleasant place to be, there are plenty of nasty adjectives that are used to describe this setting in the previous blogs. Ugly, barren, grotesque, vacant, desolate, these are all words that can be used to describe the waste land that is the infamous Valley. So, we have a general idea of what we are dealing with when we are in this setting, but what does this mean to the story? How does the interesting setting influence characters, actions, and the plot of the story? This is how symbolism works, not only does the setting itself have certain characteristics, but those characteristics will influence other parts of the story and that is where we get a major sense of symbolism. For example Myrtle is closely tied to the Valley of Ashes. Myrtle, what a great name for a beautiful and pleasant girl, don’t you think? Chances are when you hear the name Myrtle you don’t picture a princess or an angelic little girl. This is a form of symbolism in itself for the character of Myrtle who is connected to the Valley of Ashes. Of course as it turns out Myrtle is not the most moral or charming character in the book, and really she is the reason for the demise of Tom and Daisy’s relationship. So now we have a symbol that directly connects and “ugly” character to and “ugly” setting. Is there anything else about the Valley of Ashes that can be a more abstract symbol? As I read my attention was drawn towards the interesting painting on the billboard that is standing over the Valley of Ashes in such an ominous way. Painted on the billboard are the constantly peering eyes of Dr. T.J. Eckleberg. Most of what goes on between Tom and Myrtle remains unseen to any eyes, besides the eyes permanently fixed on the billboard. These eyes see anything and everything that goes on inside the Valley of Ashes, mush like an omniscient figure. Maybe even resembling a God like figure that watches over the wrong doings of Myrtle and Tom. There is many different ways to interpret what authors write in books and novels, that is why we describe them as symbols, and not clear signs.
ReplyDeleteMitchell,
ReplyDeleteI agree with you when you talked about the name Myrtle. It is a harsh, almost ugly name. Where as Daisy is a more feminine, precious name. This really shows the difference between the two women's morals and social status. Daisy's being upheld and high where Myrtles are damaged and low. I also felt very ominous when I read about Dr. T.J. Eckleberg. Almost for no reason at all we get this eerie feeling towards the faded billboard.
Ryan,
I love that you first saw the book as a short and quaint story because that is how I saw The Great Gatsby at first as well. It is not nearly as intimidating as An American Tragedy was. Yet, it includes so much more in depth reading and symbolism, which makes it very exciting to read. I never thought of the connection of society both throwing away The Valley of Ashes and Myrtle Wilson. Thats a great way to think about it. I also agree that location is a key part of the story. You really can tell what a person is like just from where they live in regards to this story.
To be honest, as I have mentioned to Laura, when I heard the " Valley of Ashes," I automatically related it to the Lion King as well, Sophie.The Valley of Ashes is just this junky crappy town that Myrtle lives in while the other two places mentioned are East and West Egg (which are nicer than the Valley of Ashes). This adds to Tom’s so called sneaking around with her. Tom isn’t sneaking around with her in some nice scenery or beach area but rather in a dump, it makes it more believable and symbolized. If he were sneaking around with her somewhere nice it wouldn’t really make all that sense. Personally, I never liked Tom from the start, weather it was his name or just his overall first impression on me, I didn’t like him. As the story progressed my dislike only became stronger. He is abusive. What kind of man punches a woman in the face? Not a good one. He is described with a “bulky appearance”, he also played football. He is obviously the manly man type but he abuses his power. I feel as though he is a selfish character and it supposed to not be liked very much. Myrtle is a character that I pity but she isn’t really any better. She has a husband of her own, who doesn’t seem like all that bad of a person but yet still also sneaks around behind his back with Tom. Daisy is Tom’s wife and she sort of reminds me of Marilyn Monroe, in a way. Even though Daisy knows that Tom is sneaking around with another woman doesn’t she sort of do the same with Gatsby? Don’t get me wrong, I do like Jay but isn’t it sort of ironic how Daisy is probably hurt by Tom but yet she would do the same thing? So far this book is by my far favorite and symbolism makes the novel so much better, it allows the reader to “imagine.” I agree with what Elizabeth had said in that eyes are watching, maybe not necessarily God but the narrator also knows quite a lot about what is going on with everyone.
ReplyDeleteDearest Sophie,
ReplyDeleteI too thought of the Lion King!!! Where the creepy hyeenas lived. ( forgive my terrible spelling.) When Myrtle comes to mind I automatically think of Murtle from the Harry Potter serious, that dead girl that hides in the bathroom? I like how you mentioned the name thing, Daisy does not sound like a dark name but rather a cheerfull girly girly comparted to Myrtle. But something to think about would be, if say Myrtle's name was Daisy wouldn't that make the story sort of more ironic because her name would be false? I also liked how you mentioned each time he goes back he starts to decay more and more which is true.
Dearest Stephanie,
I love how you brought up the sun, and how that sort of forshadows that their lives are going to get brighter and brighter. Often in stories the weather and scenery play a huge part in the novel such as the Grapes of Wrath for instance, if it starts off with grey clouds and dark weather ahead this portrays that something bad is about to become of the characters.
I found that Jay felt that he did everything to get Daisy to notice him. It is sad that he needed to obtain all that wealth and status just to get Daisy to like him. One shouldn't need all that to please someone.
My good friend Laira,
ReplyDeleteI like how you made the connection that it makes sense for Tom and Myrtle to be doing such awful deeds in an awful location, and that it would take away from the idea of they were having their affair in an area with nice scenery. Also you quoted goo details on how the narrator describes Tom. He is obviously a cocky somewhat self-indulgent man who abuses his power and uses his size to his own advantage. His unappealing personality is only enhanced by his inappropriate and immoral actions throughout the story.
Ryan,
ReplyDeleteFirst and foremost I though that you made some very interesting points in your opening paragraph. Fitzgerald wrote his story in a way that requires us as readers to go more than just mindlessly read over line after line of literature. Rather, he wants us to look for meanings and symbols in his words, to look through every page for hidden clues. He strives to create a much deeper sense of reading. Also your last paragraph makes a good point also, by knowing how most people act in an area of the book we can make an inference about a certain person simply by where they live. For example the people in East Egg handle their wealth in one way, and the people in West Egg handle their wealth in another. Both ways are common throughout the respective towns, and both ways are very distinct in their differences. With this type of writing we can make inferences about characters just by where they live. For example we can infer that a person living in Wast Egg will be very wealthy, but they wont quite know how to use their wealth. I can always count on you to open my eyes to a different point of the story that I missed.
Just as many of the other novels written throughout the years, the Great Gatsby is one of those novels that use symbolism though out its entire story. Symbolism is used to show concepts or ideas that are intended by the author through setting, objects, and people in a story. This can be seen especially in setting and in the different characters of the Great Gatsby. One specific setting is the Valley of Ashes, which is located between West Egg and New York. This “industrial wasteland” is limited in population, and is portrayed to be extremely grimy and dirty. Outside every rich place (west egg) is a dumping ground for society’s not-so-wealthy persons which can be seen in the stretch of the Valley of Ashes. Myrtle and her husband are from this valley of ashes. Ashes sometimes can seem dirty, and many times things that are dirty are impure. Myrtle, by cheating on her husband with Tom, is a good representation for the Valley of Ashes, in that she is impure by continuing an intimate relationship with Tom (who is married to Nick’s cousin Daisy), while Myrtle’s husband and Daisy are oblivious to both of their relationship. By hanging out in the Valley of Ashes, this shows that Tom is also morally corrupt, along with Myrtle, or suffering from moral decay which is a symbol of the Valley of Ashes
ReplyDeleteA commonly seen form of symbolism in this book is the green light seen at Daisy’s house. Just like a fly, Gatsby is drawn to this light, and to Daisy. The color green is usually used as symbolism for “go”, so this could possibly be considered foreshadowing that Gatsby will be drawn to Daisy, and with her husband cheating on her, this could give Daisy an excuse to cheat on her husband.
Maria,
I like your first few sentences about how Tom is more amoral than Myrtle. I think this is completely true. Daisy is giving Tom all of the attention he needs, and he is out with another woman. He is also physically abusing both of them. I really like how you also related Tom to the Valley of Ashes, because this desolate place does not just apply to Myrtle, but to Tom as well, a very good point.
Kristy,
I like you hope to be able to identify more accounts of symbolism throughout the book. I really feel that being able to see the relations of different forms of symbolism in the begging of the book will help not only with the rest of the book, but with other novels as well. I also like your point of symbolism with Daisy and how her name matches her personality.