"And I like large parties. They’re so intimate. At small parties there isn’t any privacy."
The Great Gatsby (1925) by F. Scott Fitzgerald, tells the story of Jay Gatsby, a wealthy man living a life of luxury. Set during the roaring 1920s, Gatsby's mansion is venue to the most lavish of parties, where the booze and dancing are endless. Nick Carraway, a writer, notices that behind the glitz and glamour, Gatsby has hidden desires. Appearance can sometimes be very far from reality. Despite marrying Tom, Daisy and Gatsby have always remained in love with one another. As the pair reunite, tensions rise and it is proved that money and status is not enough to save you. In the same manner, the novel introduces shallow characters who are clearly symbolic of how wealth buys neither class nor good personality. I enjoyed Fitzgerald's subtle irony in this way.
This novel is not only vividly accurate in its descriptions of fashion, booze and parties, but it highlights the issues with post-war society and the 'American Dream.' Tragically, this novel portrays how a man can have all the status and admiration available, and still be deeply alone. The movie adaptation, starring Leonardo DiCaprio, is equally as brilliant!
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