Great Gatsby- Review

{ 28/03/2011 @ 10:10 am } · { Book Reviews }

The original artwork for the book, ground braking and slightly controversial.

The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald, is written through the eyes of Nick Carraway, an observer of the rich and fabulously unfulfilled lives of the Long Island inhabitants. We follow Jay Gatsby, Nick’s illustrious neighbour, from his murky past to his lavish lifestyle in his enormous mansion. Every Saturday night, once the guests have left and his home is as empty as his life, Gatsby gazes across the bay. From the less fashionable town of West Egg to the green light of the Buchanan’s dock, and dreams of Daisy. Described as imperceptibly enchanting she and Gatsby shared a colourful childhood romance in the Louisville summer of 1917. This was severed short as Gatsby left for the horror of war. Separated and impatient of waiting, Daisy falls into the arms of Tom Buchanan. But Gatsby holds onto love whilst amassing his fortune, plotting to entice Daisy back to him.

Daisy, we find, is shallow. Blinded by her riches and beauty she cannot see past her appearance in the eyes of others to understand depth in life. Daisy and Tom provide the crux of all issues. Oblivious and uncaring of the damage they inflict they plunder through the book. As for Jay Gatsby, when the final page is turned only pity is felt for him. For all his wealth and splendour he was a man searching for the only good thing he’d ever really known; love. I felt for the book to end with Jay as a victim of his lifestyle is the author’s largest social comment.

The language used by the author is probably the most enchanting part of the Great Gatsby. Using left of centre descriptions F.Scott.Fitzgerald conveys accurate and far more beautiful descriptions than any other book I’ve ever read. He paints a glittering world of sparkling champagne and more money than sense or personal depth. He shows the alluring world of high society and wealth as repulsive journey through his characters.

Contrary to how my writing comes across I really love this book for its truth and social commentary that are as relevant today as they were in the 1920’s. I recommend this for people 15 years and above or anybody who enjoys an emotional and beautiful story.