Fitzgerald’s descriptions of the party atmosphere at Gatsby’s house and the corresponding wealthy people who endow it are infused with bitterly sarcastic and biting language. The author writes that there are “old men pushing young girls backward in eternal graceless circles, superior couples holding each other torturously, fashionably, and keeping in the corners—and a great number of single girls dancing individualistically or relieving the orchestra for a moment of the burden of the banjo or the traps” (46). The author’s skillful juxtaposition of words such as “pushing” and “torturously” with the words “superior” and “fashionably” effectively displays to the reader the insipid façade which is so important to the upper class. This becomes apparent as the words “pushing” and “torturously” suggest a rigidity of stature and a strained demeanor in the persons whom they are describing, since these words are closely tied to invocations of forced actions, unhappy occurrences, and painful obligations. The coupling of this image with the thought of the “superior” class acting this way works to summon the idea that the sole concern of the pedigree class is to appear better than everybody else, although in order to uphold this illusion, they must submit themselves to circumstances that they loath. This suggestion creates a bitter edge to Fitzgerald’s words, which are meant to warn the reader of the atrocities of the rich. Later, the author describes the “bizarre accusations that flavored conversation in [Gatsby’s] halls” (65). Through the use of the word “flavored” in this statement, Fitzgerald proposes that the halls in question are, in the absence of such conversation, relatively bland, as the word “flavored” suggests adding excitement or variety to an otherwise desolate situation or place. This proposition eludes the empty and false nature of the people who attend Gatsby’s parties, as the only things that create excitement are rumors of Gatsby and not the personality of the attendees. By continually using sneering, sarcastic, and bitter language while describing the rich throughout the novel, it becomes obvious that Fitzgerald regards these people with scorn and contempt.
It seems as though the rich can't quite make friends with one another, for they show a bland nature as if to use each other. As you have said, the only thing rather than the people themselves is the "bizarre accusations" that lightened up the party. Usually, a party is full of energy. This makes it so sad that not even Gatsby's parties have a bit of energy. This shows the difference and isolation between Gatsby and his guests, for there were only a few people at his funeral. People took advantage of Gatsby and his offered wealth.
ReplyDeleteNot only that, but it reveals the true nature of this "great" Gatsby. The parties Gatsby would host were similar trap, to lure in Daisy or people who might know her. If Gatsby was so great who didn't he just contact Daisy, they are even in the same city! Even when Nick first met Gatsby, he had no idea who he was, again, emphasizing the true reclusive nature of Gatsby. It isn't until his trap actually works, and he really meets with daisy that his true personality shines through.
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