Journal 20

Read the novel’s last passage (beginning with, “Gatsby’s house was still empty when I left”) and discuss the use of imagery and symbolism that is being employed by Fitzgerald. In your response, specifically address what Nick is saying about the green light and the connection that he is making between Gatsby and the Dutch sailors who “discovered” Long Island. As Nick is getting ready to move away from New York, he takes a second to reminisce and say goodbye to that lifestyle. His mind flashes back to the Saturday nights he spent in New York, especially at Gatsby's parties. Nick uses imagery to describe the lavish house Gatsby lived in and the glamorous parties he threw. Through the use of imagery, one is almost able to imagine themselves standing in Gatsby's beautiful yard, surrounded by several people laughing and dancing to music. Nick is also able to use imagery to describe his moments before getting on the train and heading off to a new life. He describes what life was after Gatsby's death. The taxi driver that was rumored to take Daisy and Tom away, the last of the guests that attended this summers' parties, the failure of a house, the beach that is now isolated, the empty town: Nick is able to use these things to help one imagine how dead the East Egg became once Gatsby was killed. Nick also connects Gatsby and the Dutch sailors through symbolism. He describes how the Dutch sailors discovered Long Island and what a huge accomplishment for them. The sailors built themselves up from nothing and became prosperous from the land they came upon. This story is symbolic of Gatsby because, in some sense, he did the same. He built himself up from nothing and was able to come close to his dreams through the house he built. Nick was able to make a connection through the Dutch sailors foreshadoweding Gatsby's journey.

Nick Carraway: Tolerant Nick's physical appearance is not described because he was the narrator. He is often involved in everyone else's problems and is very tolerant. Tom Buchanan: Arrogant Tom was full of himself. He was superior over Daisy and often frightening because he would become aggressive with her. He had a large amount of wealth, in which he won Daisy over with. His physical appearance can be described as large and frightening. Daisy Buchanan: Superficial Daisy was beautiful socialite and fawned upon by several men. Money seemed to be more important to Daisy then love. Jordan Baker: Mysterious Nick described Jordan as a beautiful young lady. Although she talked little and was often in the background, she knew a lot of secrets. She also had a cunning personality. Jay Gatsby: Wealthy Gatsby is known for his lavish lifestyle and parties that he threw. His name was popular around New York, but only a few people really knew Gatsby's personality. His physical appearance can be described as young and handsome.