Each character’s unique view on the American Dream is what makes this an intriguing topic. Even though they each had differing perspectives on the idea, their goal was simple: achieve success, prosperity, and accomplish a set goal. This multifaceted exploration of the American Dream provides a rich tapestry of human ambition, disillusionment, and the quest for identity.
Jay Gatsby’s Pursuit of Love and Wealth
I definitely align with the interpretation of Gatsby’s view on the American Dream. Gatsby’s love for Daisy was always the catalyst which drove his motivation to become rich by any means necessary. This explains why he immersed himself in bootlegging, as a means to get rich quick. In doing so, he believed he would earn the passage to a higher social status. Gatsby devised a meticulous plan to win Daisy back. By building his mansion in East Egg, he made it a point to constantly throw lavish parties, inviting the wealthiest citizens, in hopes of proving his wealth and demonstrating that he belonged in their social circle. This was all done with the hope of attracting Daisy’s attention, and perhaps her love.
However, Gatsby ultimately failed in his pursuit of Daisy, which he equated with achieving his American Dream. Despite his newfound wealth, Daisy never considered him to be in the same social status/class as she was. This highlights the rigid class distinctions that the American Dream often overlooks. Gatsby’s dream was not just about wealth; it was about love, acceptance, and the desire to reclaim a past that was irretrievably lost. His tragic end underscores the elusive nature of the American Dream and the personal costs of its pursuit.
Daisy Buchanan’s Embrace of Wealth and Status
Furthermore, Daisy’s view of the American Dream was obvious for any reader to see, which is why I definitely agree with Sophia’s description of that dream. Daisy’s dream was always to immerse herself in wealth by marrying the wealthiest individual in East Egg, who in this case was Tom. In doing so, she would bear his children and live out the rest of her life in a lavish and stress-free way. Wealth and high social status were the most important ideologies that she adopted, which could explain why Gatsby never stood a chance in winning her heart again. As far as Daisy was concerned, maintaining her high social class status was more important to her, and she could never see herself associating with anyone of a lesser status. This, in turn, clearly depicts why Daisy succeeded in the pursuit of her idea of the American Dream. She did marry Tom Buchanan, the wealthiest man in the city, and she had the child she always wanted.
Daisy’s version of the American Dream is a critique of its materialistic and superficial aspects. Her success is defined by her social standing and financial security, rather than personal fulfillment or genuine happiness. This portrayal invites readers to question whether true contentment can be found through wealth alone.
Nick Carraway’s Disillusionment
I do disagree with the common interpretation of Nick’s take on the American Dream. Coming from the Midwest, where strong values of hard work were adopted, Nick did have a dream which was originally to become a bondsman. This profession, Nick felt, was an honorable one, which would lead him to great success and comfort. Nick, being a more reserved individual, felt this success could only be achieved through hard work. Moving to the East in pursuit of this dream did change his perspective on it as he quickly came to the realization that the new jazz era that was readily embraced had corrupted and misguided many views on living the American Dream. This, in turn, placed doubts in Nick’s mind as to the true meaning of the American Dream. This, I feel, caused Nick to give up in his pursuit of the American Dream.
Nick’s journey is emblematic of the broader disillusionment with the American Dream during the Jazz Age. He begins with idealistic aspirations but becomes increasingly aware of the moral decay and superficiality that characterize the lives of those around him. This evolution in his understanding highlights the gap between the ideal and the reality of the American Dream.
Tom Buchanan’s Unfulfilled Ambitions
Finally, in describing Tom’s idea of the American Dream, it is accurate to state that he never felt fulfilled. Tom Buchanan had it all, from wealth to good looks and the most desirable wife in the city. Being born into wealth, Tom’s desire for more power and becoming the most prominent high social figure led him to immoral behaviors. For someone who had it all, he still felt the need to secretly keep a mistress. Tom was definitely described as already living his American Dream.
Tom’s character represents the darker side of the American Dream—the insatiable desire for more, even when one seemingly has everything. His pursuit of dominance and control, along with his infidelity, reveals the emptiness and dissatisfaction that can accompany the relentless quest for status and power. Tom’s actions suggest that the fulfillment promised by the American Dream is often an illusion.
Broader Implications and Conclusion
These diverse perspectives on the American Dream illustrate its complexity and the varied ways it can be interpreted and pursued. Jay Gatsby’s romanticized vision, Daisy Buchanan’s materialistic approach, Nick Carraway’s disillusionment, and Tom Buchanan’s insatiable ambition each offer unique insights into the American Dream’s allure and its pitfalls.
Ultimately, the American Dream is not a monolithic concept but a multifaceted one that reflects individual aspirations and societal values. The pursuit of this dream can lead to success and fulfillment, but it can also result in disillusionment and tragedy. By examining these literary characters and their experiences, we gain a deeper understanding of the American Dream’s promises and limitations.
Albert Schweitzer’s assertion that “Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success” resonates throughout these narratives. True success is deeply personal and often deviates from society’s conventional measures of wealth and popularity. In literature, as in life, the pursuit of happiness and fulfillment remains the ultimate goal, transcending the superficial trappings of the American Dream.
This exploration of the American Dream in literature serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring human quest for meaning, identity, and true contentment. It challenges us to reflect on our own definitions of success and happiness and to seek a path that aligns with our deepest values and aspirations.