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Reading Journal Day 9

Write a "book-fommercial" to convince others to read "The Great Gatsby":

[Scene opens with a view of the roaring 1920s, jazz music playing in the background]

Narrator: Step into a world of glitz, glamour, and secrets with "The Great Gatsby," the iconic novel that has captured the hearts of readers for generations.

[Cut to a lavish party scene at Gatsby's mansion]

Narrator: Join the enigmatic Jay Gatsby at his legendary parties, where the rich and famous gather to revel in the opulence of the Jazz Age.

[Cut to a mysterious shot of Gatsby gazing at the green light]

Narrator: Unravel the enigma of Jay Gatsby, a man of ambition and a tragic past, who dares to dream big and reach for the stars.

[Cut to a romantic scene between Gatsby and Daisy]

Narrator: Witness a timeless love story that transcends social barriers and the passage of time.

[Cut to a dramatic confrontation between characters]

Narrator: Experience the intensity of love, betrayal, and the pursuit of the elusive American Dream.

[Cut to a shot of Nick Carraway narrating the story]

Narrator: Follow Nick Carraway, the reliable and observant narrator, as he navigates the complexities of the high-society world.

[Cut to a breathtaking view of the Valley of Ashes]

Narrator: Explore the stark contrast between the extravagance of the rich and the desolation of the poor in the Valley of Ashes.

[Cut to a final scene of Gatsby reaching for the green light]

Narrator: Discover the power of hope and the human spirit as Gatsby reaches for his dreams, even as they slip through his fingers.

[Cut to a shot of the book cover with the slogan]

Narrator: "The Great Gatsby" - A timeless classic that will transport you to an era of glitz, romance, and the pursuit of the American Dream.

[Fade out with the book cover and a call to action]

Narrator: Don't miss out on this literary masterpiece! Grab your copy of "The Great Gatsby" today and embark on an unforgettable journey through the Jazz Age.

[Fade to black]

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Reading Journal Day 8

If you could step into the book, what’s the first thing you would do?

If I could step into "The Great Gatsby," the first thing I would do is attend one of Gatsby's extravagant parties. Throughout the novel, Gatsby's parties are depicted as lavish and extravagant gatherings filled with opulence, music, and a sense of wonder. The vivid descriptions of the festivities, the dazzling lights, and the lively atmosphere create a captivating image of a grand social event.

Being a part of one of Gatsby's parties would provide a unique and immersive experience into the Roaring Twenties era. I would love to don the glamorous attire of the time, with flapper dresses, tuxedos, and sparkling accessories, and join the guests in dancing to the lively jazz music.

As I wander through Gatsby's opulent mansion, I would observe the diverse mix of guests from all walks of life, each with their own stories and motivations for attending the party. The conversations and interactions would be fascinating, as I would get to meet intriguing characters such as Nick Carraway, Jordan Baker, and of course, the enigmatic Jay Gatsby himself.

Additionally, I would make it a point to seek out Gatsby during the party. I'd be curious to know more about the man behind the legend, his dreams, and the true nature of his feelings for Daisy Buchanan. Engaging in a conversation with Gatsby might reveal more about his motivations and the depth of his emotions, which are central to the novel's themes.

Stepping into the world of "The Great Gatsby" and experiencing one of Gatsby's legendary parties would be a captivating and unforgettable adventure. It would allow me to immerse myself in the glitz and glamour of the 1920s and gain a deeper understanding of the characters and their lives beyond the pages of the novel.;

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Reading Journal Day 7

"I think the relationship between _______ and _______ is interesting because..."

I think the relationship between Jay Gatsby and Daisy Buchanan is interesting because...

In "The Great Gatsby," the relationship between Jay Gatsby and Daisy Buchanan serves as a central focus and driving force behind the events of the novel. Their love story is one of longing, unrequited love, and the pursuit of the unattainable.

The narrative begins with Gatsby's mysterious persona and his deep infatuation with Daisy, which is evident in the iconic quote, "He stretched out his arms toward the dark water in a curious way...Involuntarily I glanced seaward—and distinguished nothing except a single green light, minute and far away, that might have been the end of a dock" (Fitzgerald 21). This quote illustrates Gatsby's deep longing for Daisy, as he associates her with the green light across the bay, symbolizing his unreachable dream.

Throughout the novel, Gatsby's pursuit of Daisy becomes more evident, and the stark contrast between appearance and reality emerges. Daisy, a symbol of wealth and luxury, seems to lead an ideal life, yet she is entangled in a loveless marriage with Tom Buchanan. "They were careless people, Tom and Daisy—they smashed up things and creatures and then retreated back into their money or their vast carelessness, or whatever it was that kept them together, and let other people clean up the mess they had made" (Fitzgerald 121). This highlights the superficiality of Daisy and Tom's life, where they appear happy and content but are actually reckless and indifferent to the consequences of their actions.

Gatsby's unyielding belief in the power of the past is evident when he declares, "Can't repeat the past?...Why of course you can!" (Fitzgerald 106). This quote emphasizes Gatsby's unwavering pursuit of Daisy and the American Dream, even though it may be an unattainable goal. His desire for Daisy to deny her past with Tom and fully embrace their relationship demonstrates his obsession with erasing her past and living in a nostalgic dream.

The societal expectations and social class play a significant role in their relationship. Gatsby views Daisy as the embodiment of wealth and privilege, as evident when he remarks, "Her voice is full of money" (Fitzgerald 115). This description reflects his perception of her and highlights the significance of social class in their relationship.

As the narrative unfolds, the consequences of holding onto past memories become apparent. Nick's observation to Gatsby, "You can't repeat the past," emphasizes the theme of the consequences of clinging to the past and trying to recreate it (Fitzgerald 106).

Overall, the relationship between Jay Gatsby and Daisy Buchanan is a complex portrayal of love, societal expectations, and the allure of the past. Their love story is laced with emotional depth and contradictions, making it one of the central elements that contribute to the enduring appeal and fascination of "The Great Gatsby."

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Reading Journal Day 6

Notes on text-to-text connections

Make ongoing comparisons between your novel and other texts or media that you are familiar with, such as:

films or television shows

texts you have read in this course (short stories, personal essays, poems, plays)

other novels you have read

"The Catcher in the Rye" by J.D. Salinger: Both novels capture the disillusionment and alienation experienced by their respective protagonists. Nick Carraway and Holden Caulfield are critical observers of the society they inhabit, perceiving it as superficial and lacking in authenticity. They navigate worlds filled with social pretenses and are unable to find genuine connections with those around them. The theme of identity is prominent in both works, as Nick and Holden grapple with questions of who they are and what they want from life.

Significant quote from "The Great Gatsby": "They were careless people, Tom and Daisy—they smashed up things and creatures and then retreated back into their money or their vast carelessness, or whatever it was that kept them together, and let other people clean up the mess they had made" (Fitzgerald 121).

"Death of a Salesman" by Arthur Miller: Both works examine the pursuit of the American Dream and its consequences. Willy Loman and Jay Gatsby share a desperate desire for success and happiness, driven by their vision of the American Dream. However, their dreams become distorted and unattainable, leading to their eventual downfall. The themes of identity, the illusion of success, and the destructive nature of unattainable dreams are explored in both works.

Significant quote from "The Great Gatsby": "Gatsby believed in the green light, the orgastic future that year by year recedes before us. It eluded us then, but that’s no matter—tomorrow we will run faster, stretch out our arms farther..." (Fitzgerald 110).

"Mad Men" (TV series, Available on Prime Video if you would like to check it out): Both "The Great Gatsby" and "Mad Men" delve into the pursuit of the American Dream and the complexities of 20th-century society. They portray characters immersed in worlds of wealth, glamour, and social expectations, but who often find themselves hollow and unfulfilled. The works critique the shallow materialism and the façade of happiness that masks deeper personal struggles. Themes of identity, the emptiness of pleasure-seeking, and the consequences of elusive desires resonate in both narratives.

Significant quote from "The Great Gatsby": "He had come a long way to this blue lawn and his dream must have seemed so close that he could hardly fail to grasp it. He did not know that it was already behind him, somewhere back in that vast obscurity beyond the city, where the dark fields of the republic rolled on under the night" (Fitzgerald 208).

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Reading Journal Day 5

Analysis of novel using literary lenses

Examine how one or more of the following literary lenses informs your interpretation of the novel:

psychological lens

gender lens

socio-economic lens

contextual lens

archetypal lens

The socio-economic lens allows us to analyze the novel through the lens of social class and economic inequality, which are central themes in the story. F. Scott Fitzgerald explores the stark divide between the "old money" elite and the nouveau riche in 1920s America.

Through this lens, we can observe the characters' behaviors, aspirations, and relationships in light of their socio-economic backgrounds. The novel highlights the extravagant lifestyles of the wealthy upper class, as represented by characters like Tom and Daisy Buchanan. They live in luxurious mansions, attend extravagant parties, and are shielded from the harsh realities of life.

On the other hand, we have Jay Gatsby, who comes from a modest background but accumulates great wealth through bootlegging and other illegal activities. Gatsby's pursuit of wealth and status is driven by his desire to win back Daisy, a symbol of old money and social prestige. He believes that through material wealth, he can bridge the class divide and ultimately be accepted by Daisy and her social circle.

The socio-economic lens also sheds light on the social stratification and inequalities present in the novel. The Valley of Ashes, a desolate and impoverished area, represents the plight of the working class, contrasted with the opulence of West Egg and East Egg. Characters like George Wilson, Myrtle's husband, struggle to make ends meet and are trapped in a cycle of poverty.

Furthermore, the novel critiques the superficiality and emptiness of the upper-class lifestyle, as characters like Tom and Daisy exhibit a lack of moral responsibility and genuine connections. The excesses and decadence of the wealthy are juxtaposed with the moral decay and social decay that underlie their lives.

Through the socio-economic lens, we can also analyze the American Dream and its relationship to social mobility. Gatsby's pursuit of wealth and success represents the belief that anyone, regardless of their background, can achieve prosperity in America. However, the novel ultimately portrays the American Dream as elusive and unattainable, as Gatsby's efforts to transcend his social class are met with tragic consequences.

In conclusion, the socio-economic lens provides a framework for understanding the class dynamics, social inequalities, and the critique of the American Dream in "The Great Gatsby." By examining the characters' actions and motivations within the context of their socio-economic backgrounds, we gain a deeper understanding of the novel's exploration of wealth, privilege, and the corrosive effects of materialism.

Food for thought - quotes from "The Great Gatsby" that support the analysis through the socio-economic lens:

"I lived at West Egg, the — well, the less fashionable of the two, though this is a most superficial tag to express the bizarre and not a little sinister contrast between them" (Fitzgerald 6).

This quote highlights the distinction (by Nick) between West Egg and East Egg, representing the divide between the nouveau riche and the established upper class.

"Her voice is full of money" (Fitzgerald 115).

This quote by Gatsby emphasizes the association of Daisy with wealth and highlights the allure of materialism in his pursuit of her.

"They were careless people, Tom and Daisy—they smashed up things and creatures and then retreated back into their money or their vast carelessness, or whatever it was that kept them together, and let other people clean up the mess they had made" (Fitzgerald 121).

This quote reflects the moral irresponsibility and detachment of the wealthy characters, Tom and Daisy, who use their wealth to shield themselves from the consequences of their actions.

"I wanted to get out and walk eastward toward the park through the soft twilight, but each time I tried to go, I became entangled in some wild, strident argument which pulled me back, as if with ropes, into my chair" (Fitzgerald 35).

This quote symbolizes the constraints imposed by societal expectations and the influence of wealth, preventing Nick from breaking free from the established norms and pursuing his own desires.

"I was within and without, simultaneously enchanted and repelled by the inexhaustible variety of life" (Fitzgerald 37).

This quote reflects Nick's conflicted feelings about the extravagance and excesses of the upper class, indicating a critical examination of the socio-economic divide.

Now here are some examples of how an archetypal lens can help enrich the interpretation of "The Great Gatsby":

The Hero Archetype:

Jay Gatsby can be seen as the archetypal hero figure in the novel, driven by an intense desire to achieve his dream of winning back Daisy. His relentless pursuit, self-sacrifice, and tragic downfall align with the hero's journey narrative.

Quote: "Gatsby believed in the green light, the orgastic future that year by year recedes before us. It eluded us then, but that's no matter—tomorrow we will run faster, stretch out our arms farther..." (Fitzgerald 110).

The Shadow Archetype:

Tom Buchanan represents the shadow archetype in the story, embodying the darker aspects of human nature. He represents the oppressive and destructive forces that clash with the protagonist, Gatsby.

Quote: "They were careless people, Tom and Daisy—they smashed up things and creatures and then retreated back into their money or their vast carelessness..." (Fitzgerald 121).

The Trickster Archetype:

Meyer Wolfsheim, Gatsby's associate involved in illegal activities, embodies the trickster archetype. He is cunning, mysterious, and operates in the shadowy underworld of organized crime.

Quote: "He's the man who fixed the World's Series back in 1919" (Fitzgerald 73).

The Femme Fatale Archetype:

Daisy Buchanan can be viewed as the femme fatale archetype, a seductive and elusive woman who leads men to their downfall. She embodies the allure of wealth and status, but ultimately causes destruction and tragedy.

Quote: "Her voice is full of money" (Fitzgerald 115).

The Valley of Ashes:

The Valley of Ashes serves as an archetypal wasteland, symbolizing the moral decay and disillusionment of the society. It represents the consequences of the pursuit of wealth and the failure of the American Dream.

Quote: "This is a valley of ashes—a fantastic farm where ashes grow like wheat into ridges and hills and grotesque gardens..." (Fitzgerald 23).

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Reading Journal Day 4

Notes on resilience in response to the following questions:

How do the characters demonstrate resilience?

How is the concept of resilience linked to themes in the novel?

What is the author saying about the role of resilience in people’s lives?

In "The Great Gatsby," the characters display different levels of resilience as they navigate the challenges and disillusionment that come their way. Resilience is defined by their ability to bounce back, persist, and adapt in the face of adversity. This theme of resilience is intricately linked to several key aspects of the novel, including the pursuit of the American Dream, the corrupting influence of wealth and materialism, and the fleeting nature of happiness and success.

Jay Gatsby, the novel's central character, embodies resilience through his relentless pursuit of his dreams. Despite his humble beginnings and lack of social status, Gatsby is driven by an unwavering belief in his ability to achieve his goals. He reinvents himself, accumulating vast wealth and throwing extravagant parties, all with the hope of winning back his lost love, Daisy Buchanan.

Gatsby's resilience is evident in his unwavering determination, his ability to adapt to the changing circumstances, and his refusal to give up, even in the face of obstacles and setbacks.

Nick Carraway, the novel's narrator, also demonstrates resilience in his journey throughout the story. As an outsider in the glamorous and corrupt world of the wealthy, Nick faces moral dilemmas and is exposed to the shallowness and materialism that define the society he inhabits. However, he remains steadfast in his integrity and strives to find meaning and authenticity amidst the superficiality. Nick's resilience lies in his ability to navigate the complexities of the society he finds himself in while retaining his sense of self and moral compass.

The concept of resilience is closely tied to the overarching themes of the novel, shedding light on the fragility of the American Dream and the hollowness of material success. The characters' resilience serves as a commentary on the relentless pursuit of wealth and status and the inherent emptiness that can accompany such pursuits. Fitzgerald suggests that while resilience can lead to temporary triumphs and moments of fulfillment, it may ultimately be futile in a society that values appearance and status over substance.

One significant quotation that exemplifies Gatsby's resilience is when Nick reflects on his character: "Gatsby believed in the green light, the orgastic future that year by year recedes before us. It eluded us then, but that's no matter—tomorrow we will run faster, stretch out our arms farther...And one fine morning—So we beat on, boats against the current, borne back ceaselessly into the past" (Fitzgerald, 180). This passage showcases Gatsby's unwavering belief in the possibility of achieving his dreams, despite the obstacles and setbacks he faces. His resilience is symbolized by his relentless pursuit of the green light, representing his hope and aspirations.

In terms of the author's message about the role of resilience, Fitzgerald suggests that while it can propel individuals to strive for success and overcome adversity, it may also lead to a perpetual chase of an unattainable ideal. The characters' resilience ultimately exposes the hollowness of their pursuits and the inherent flaws in the society they inhabit. Fitzgerald critiques the superficiality and materialism of the Jazz Age and questions the true value of resilience in a world driven by shallow aspirations.

Overall, "The Great Gatsby" delves into the theme of resilience through the characters' determination to pursue their dreams, adapt to their circumstances, and maintain their integrity. However, it also serves as a cautionary tale about the limitations of resilience in a society consumed by superficiality and the fleeting nature of material success.

Some food for thought - quotes of significance

"Gatsby turned out all right at the end; it is what preyed on Gatsby, what foul dust floated in the wake of his dreams that temporarily closed out my interest in the abortive sorrows and short-winded elations of men" (Fitzgerald 2). - This quote, spoken by Nick, emphasizes Gatsby's resilience by acknowledging his ultimate success. It implies that Gatsby's determination and unwavering pursuit of his dreams had a lasting impact, despite the challenges and disappointments he faced.

"I wanted the world to be in uniform and at a sort of moral attention forever; I wanted no more riotous excursions with privileged glimpses into the human heart." (Fitzgerald 8) - This quote reflects Nick's resilience in rejecting the superficiality and corruption of the society he encounters. It showcases his desire for a more authentic and morally grounded world, highlighting his determination to maintain his values despite the allure of the extravagant lifestyle.

"He stretched out his arms toward the dark water in a curious way...and distinguished nothing except a single green light, minute and far away, that might have been the end of a dock." (Fitzgerald 21) - This iconic quote represents Gatsby's unwavering resilience and his relentless pursuit of the green light, which symbolizes his dreams and aspirations. It demonstrates his ability to remain focused on his goals, even when they seem distant and unattainable.

These quotes, along with others throughout the novel, highlight the characters' resilience and contribute to the exploration of the theme. They showcase their determination, adaptability, and ability to persist in the face of adversity, underscoring the complexities of their pursuit of happiness and success.

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Reading journal day 3

Explanation of your novel’s biographical and historical context based on your research on

the life of the author

the time in which the author was writing

the novel’s setting/time period

"The Great Gatsby" was written by F. Scott Fitzgerald, an American author who lived from 1896 to 1940. Fitzgerald himself experienced the Jazz Age, a term he coined to describe the cultural and social changes of the 1920s. His personal experiences and observations of the wealthy elite during this time heavily influenced his writing, including "The Great Gatsby." Fitzgerald's own life was marked by financial struggles, a tumultuous relationship with his wife Zelda, and a desire to achieve success and recognition as a writer.

Historical Context: The novel was published in 1925, a time of significant societal shifts in America. The aftermath of World War I and the 1920s brought about a period of rapid urbanization, economic prosperity, and cultural transformation.

It was an era of excess, hedonism, and a pursuit of pleasure and wealth. The Prohibition era, in which the production, sale, and distribution of alcohol were prohibited, also played a role in shaping the social landscape and the underground world of speakeasies and bootlegging. These historical factors are reflected in the novel's themes of decadence, materialism, and the corruption of the American Dream.

Setting and Time Period: "The Great Gatsby" is set in the 1920s, primarily in the fictional towns of West Egg and East Egg on Long Island, New York. These settings represent the divide between new money (West Egg) and old money (East Egg) within the wealthy social circles. The novel also explores the contrasting backdrop of the desolate and industrial Valley of Ashes, symbolizing the decay and moral corruption beneath the glamorous surface of the Jazz Age. The opulent parties, extravagant lifestyles, and societal tensions depicted in the novel are indicative of the Roaring Twenties, a time of great social and cultural change.

Overall, "The Great Gatsby" reflects both the personal experiences of F. Scott Fitzgerald and the larger historical and cultural context of the Jazz Age. Through its characters and settings, the novel explores themes of wealth, love, disillusionment, and the elusive nature of the American Dream in a time of societal upheaval and excess.

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Reading Journal day 2

What have you learned about the main character(s) from the first third of the novel?

Jay Gatsby:

Known for throwing extravagant parties every weekend.

Has a mysterious background and there are various rumors surrounding him.

Craves attention and validation from others, as seen through his effort to ensure his guests enjoy themselves.

Wants to be perceived as smart and well-read, but is seen through by the owl-eyed man.

Separates himself from his guests at his own parties, adding to his mysterious aura.

Served in the same division as Nick in the war, establishing a connection between them.

His true character and the extent of his wealth remain a mystery.

There are questions regarding the authenticity of the rumors about him, his wealth, and his involvement in illicit activities.

Nick Carraway:

Serves as the narrator and the primary observer of the events.

Comes from a prominent, well-to-do family in the Midwest.

Holds moral standards and tries to maintain neutrality in his interactions.

Considers himself tolerant and tries not to judge others based on his advantages.

Graduated from New Haven (Yale) and presents himself as educated and well-mannered.

Begins a relationship with Jordan Baker, who has a reputation for being dishonest.

Daisy Buchanan:

Married to Tom Buchanan, a wealthy man from an upper-class background.

Symbolizes charm, beauty, and innocence.

Superficial and driven by a desire for prestige and power.

Unsatisfied with her status in life and unhappily married.

Shows a lack of genuine kindness, only acting kind when it serves her purpose.

Her relationship with Gatsby is hinted at, as she is revealed to be in love with someone other than her husband.

Tom Buchanan:

Comes from a wealthy background and is arrogant and pretentious.

Has an affair with Myrtle Wilson, revealing his lack of fidelity and moral standards.

Racist and holds racist beliefs, as shown through his association with white supremacist literature.

Maintains control and authority in his interactions with others.

Uses his wealth and social status to maintain an image of power and superiority.

How have the main character(s) changed, grown, or revealed themselves in the second third?

In these chapters, Gatsby's past is further explored, revealing his humble beginnings and his transformation into a wealthy and extravagant figure. Through his interactions with Nick and his elaborate parties, Gatsby showcases his desire to be accepted by the upper class and his obsession with recreating the past.

Gatsby's relentless pursuit of Daisy Buchanan is a central focus in these chapters. He goes to great lengths to impress her, showcasing his opulent mansion, extravagant parties, and grand gestures like showering her with his collection of shirts. His devotion to Daisy and his unyielding belief in their future together are revealed, demonstrating his idealism and capacity for love.

However, Gatsby's character is also shown to be complex and enigmatic. He remains mysterious about his past and the source of his wealth, leaving others to speculate and create rumors about him. This contributes to the aura of glamour and fascination surrounding him.

Gatsby's growth in these chapters is seen in his vulnerability and his willingness to take risks for love. Despite the uncertainty and potential for disappointment, he continues to pursue Daisy, hoping for a reunion and a chance to recreate the past. This determination and emotional investment demonstrate Gatsby's growth as a character, as he becomes more willing to face the consequences and confront the realities of his dream.

Overall, in the second third of the novel, Gatsby is portrayed as a complex and multi-dimensional character. He is driven by his idealistic pursuit of love and the American Dream, but his flaws and vulnerabilities are also revealed. This adds depth to his character and sets the stage for further development and revelations in the remaining chapters.

In addition to Jay Gatsby, several other characters in The Great Gatsby undergo changes and reveal different aspects of their personalities in the second third of the novel. Here are some notable developments:

Daisy Buchanan: Daisy's character becomes more layered and complex in these chapters. Initially portrayed as a symbol of beauty and charm, her true nature starts to emerge. Daisy is torn between her love for Gatsby and her comfortable but unfulfilling marriage to Tom Buchanan. She is revealed to be indecisive and easily swayed, as seen in her wavering feelings for both men. Daisy's actions reflect her desire for security and social status, as she ultimately chooses to stay with Tom despite her connection with Gatsby.

Tom Buchanan: Tom remains arrogant and assertive, but his true colors start to show in these chapters. He becomes increasingly suspicious of Gatsby and grows more possessive of Daisy. Tom's racist and condescending attitudes are also revealed during a heated conversation about his beliefs in white supremacy. This further demonstrates his flawed character and highlights his underlying insecurities.

Nick Carraway: As the narrator, Nick's character provides insight into the events unfolding around him. In this section, he becomes more entangled in the lives of the other characters. He acts as a confidant for both Gatsby and Daisy, witnessing their emotional struggles and becoming more empathetic towards them. Nick's growing disillusionment with the wealthy and their shallow lifestyles is evident as he starts to question the moral integrity of those around him.

Jordan Baker: Jordan's character remains enigmatic, but her relationship with Nick becomes more significant. They grow closer, and Nick begins to develop deeper feelings for her. However, Jordan's dishonesty and manipulation are also revealed, highlighting her morally ambiguous nature.

How have the main character(s) changed, grown, or revealed themselves in the final third?

Jay Gatsby: Gatsby's character undergoes a transformation in the final third of the novel. His obsession with Daisy and his relentless pursuit of the American Dream come to a tragic end. He is revealed to be a vulnerable and deeply flawed individual, driven by his idealized vision of the past. Gatsby's death exposes the emptiness and fragility of his extravagant lifestyle, highlighting the futility of his pursuit.

Nick Carraway: Throughout the novel, Nick serves as the narrator and central observer. In the final third, he becomes disillusioned with the shallow and morally bankrupt world of the wealthy elite. He begins to see through the façade and realizes the hollowness of the lives led by Tom, Daisy, and their social circle. Nick's experience with Gatsby's downfall prompts him to reflect on the emptiness and corruption of the American Dream.

Daisy Buchanan: Daisy's true nature becomes more apparent in the final third. She is revealed to be a self-centered and careless individual who is willing to manipulate others for her own benefit. She chooses the comfort and security of her social position over love and loyalty, ultimately betraying Gatsby and contributing to his downfall. Daisy's actions highlight the destructive power of wealth and privilege.

Tom Buchanan: Tom's true colors are fully exposed in the final third of the novel. He is shown to be an arrogant and hypocritical individual, using his wealth and social status to exert control over others. Tom's affair with Myrtle and his manipulation of Wilson ultimately lead to the tragic events that unfold. His actions highlight the moral decay and corruption prevalent among the wealthy elite.

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Reading Journal Day 1

I chose "The Great Gatsby" for our grade 12 literature study because it is a classic with much to speak to us today. The story takes place in the 1920s, during the Jazz Age, a time of glamour and extravagance. It delves into significant issues such as the American Dream, obsession, and relationships.

One of the reasons I chose this book is that it is relatable. "The Great Gatsby" characters are flawed and complex, much like real people. We may identify with Jay Gatsby, Daisy Buchanan, and Nick Carraway as they struggle with their wants, dreams, and the urge to fit in. It allows us to reflect on our own lives and the decisions we make.

Another interesting aspect of "The Great Gatsby" is that it has a modern adaptation by Brent Faiyez named "Ghetto Gatsby." Which is included in his 2022 album “Wasteland”, covering a lot of the same themes as the novel. It combines the story with hip-hop and R&B music. I thought it would be fascinating to compare the original text to this modern adaptation and see how the themes and ideas transition to our present time.