What two emotions are pulling at Mr. Gatz? This question arises when analyzing the character of Jay Gatsby in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s classic novel, “The Great Gatsby.” The novel is a poignant exploration of the American Dream, and Gatsby’s character embodies the struggle between two conflicting emotions: desire and disillusionment.
The first emotion that pulls at Mr. Gatz is desire. Gatsby’s unyielding pursuit of Daisy, the woman he loves, is a testament to his overwhelming desire. This desire is not merely for Daisy’s physical beauty or her social status, but for the past that they shared—a time when they were young and carefree. Gatsby’s dream of rekindling their love is a driving force in his life, and it fuels his relentless ambition to amass wealth and success. This desire is what propels him to throw extravagant parties, hoping to attract Daisy’s attention and remind her of their shared past.
The second emotion that pulls at Mr. Gatz is disillusionment. Despite his relentless pursuit of his dream, Gatsby is constantly haunted by the knowledge that his past is irretrievable. The world he has created for himself, full of opulence and grandeur, is a facade that conceals his deep-seated insecurities and the pain of lost love. As the novel progresses, Gatsby’s disillusionment with the American Dream becomes increasingly apparent. He realizes that his dream is an illusion, and that the world he has built is as fragile as the bubble he is living in.
The interplay between these two emotions is what makes Gatsby’s character so compelling. On one hand, he is a man driven by an insatiable desire for a lost love and a bygone era. On the other hand, he is a man who is acutely aware of the hollowness of his dream and the emptiness of his life. This juxtaposition of desire and disillusionment creates a complex and relatable character, who serves as a symbol of the American Dream’s inherent contradictions.
In conclusion, the two emotions that pull at Mr. Gatz are desire and disillusionment. These emotions drive his actions, shape his character, and ultimately contribute to his tragic demise. F. Scott Fitzgerald’s portrayal of Gatsby’s internal conflict serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of pursuing a dream at the expense of one’s own well-being and the well-being of others.
