How money widens the gap of loneliness in the great gatsby :: essays research papers

The 1920s in the united States was a time of economic wrickth in which people lived frivolous lives by believing their money would make them happy. It was a time of alcoholic forbiddance and a time of emancipation for women. Thus, it was a time of parties, drinking and fierce women for those who could afford it. Those who were at the bottom of society were constantly striving for the wind of the economic ladder.     This time era, in Long Island, is the basis of F. Scotts Fitzgeralds book, The large Gatsby. It has become one of the great classics in American belles-lettres and is well up humpn for its commentary on social status. Through the access of many status oriented characters, Fitzgerald comments on the social lives of those living in the twenties. But does it go beyond the social status issues it addresses, and focus on something deeper? Yes, the characters may focus on their constant climb to economic well be, but more importantly they reveal a theme of The Great Gatsby in the midst of mans heart is seclusion and the wishing to be needed, which is surrounded by the greed of money. Gatsby offers a detailed social picture of the stresses of an advanced capitalist culture in the early mid-twenties (Fitter), Fitzgerald discloses in these people a meanness of spirit, carelessness and absence of loyalties. He cannot hate them, for they are dumb in their insensate selfishness, and only to be pitied. (Clark).      Fryc 2The plot, or general development of the story, is carefully designed to grow as the reader gets to know the characters. It isnt until the last few chapters that the demonstrable events of the story add to the theme. Even then, the characters reactions to these events are what assure the theme of loneliness.     The narrator, Nick Carraway, presents his own view of himself at the beginning of the story. By being the narrator, he only allows the reader to know what he wa nts them to know about him. He harbors the impression that he is an upright human being that reserves all judgments (p.1). However, by the end of the story, he has come to the finishing that everyone he has come into contact with is shallow and self-absorbed. Although he might give the impression that he is content with life, a small glimpse of loneliness can be seen in him.