Scott Fitzgerald, delves readers into the thrilling and extravagant world of the American 1920's. The post war economy of the United States was at a boom; people consequently developed highly indulgent habits. The frequent purchases of luxuries and overzealous spending became common holds. The previously thought well defined line between 'want' and 'need' began to blur. Perhaps the people indulged as a sort of self-reward for having survived the hardships of the First World War. Or, perhaps it was just because they could. Whatever the reason may have been, the 1920's in America have been awarded the title of the Roaring Twenties. The idea of an 'American Dream' was founded in this time period. The American Dream revolves around achieving happiness. Which paths and choices are taken to reach this goal, however, are entirely dependent upon the individual. Also reliant on the person is the definition of 'happy'. To some, 'happy' could mean having absolutely nothing, but being surrounded by people they love. To others, 'happy' could mean having everything, apathetic to whether or not they have contact with society. The key to finding happiness in a nutshell is simply having hopes and aspirations for the future. Jay Gatsby, the namesake of Fitzgerald's novel, is a prime example of such expectations. Throughout his entire life, he holds true to himself and his own dreams; he goes to great lengths in an impressive attempt to reach them. However, the always elusive American Dream posses staggering powers of evasion; slipping through the grasp, falling through the grates.
"If personality is an unbroken series if successful gestures, then there was something gorgeous about him, some heightened sensitivity to the promises of life, as if he were related to one of those intricate machines that register earthquakes ten thousand miles away" (page 8). Found in the opening paragraphs of the novel, this quote introduces Gatsby to the audience as an almost God-like, mysterious man.
