Great Gatsby Flashcards
destructive power of capitalism 1
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 … and let other people clean up the mess they had made.” (Chapter 9)
Literary Technique: Imagery and Symbolism
Explanation: This quote reflects the destructive nature of capitalism through the portrayal of Tom and Daisy Buchanan. It suggests that their wealth and materialistic pursuits have made them careless and indifferent to the consequences of their actions. They leave a trail of destruction behind them, expecting others to handle the aftermath while they remain shielded by their wealth and privilege.
destructive power of capitalism 2
Quote: “He was clutching at some last hope and I couldn’t bear to shake him free.” (Chapter 8)
Literary Technique: Metaphor
Explanation: In this quote, the downfall of Jay Gatsby symbolizes the destructive power of capitalism. Gatsby’s obsession with wealth and his pursuit of the American Dream ultimately lead to his tragic end. The metaphorical image of Gatsby shattering like glass against Tom’s malice represents the harsh reality of the corrupting influence of capitalism and the fragile nature of materialistic pursuits.
futility of the American Dream 1
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” (Chapter 9)
Literary Technique: Symbolism and Metaphor
Explanation: This famous quote encapsulates the futility of the American Dream through the symbolism of the green light. Gatsby associates the green light with his pursuit of a better future and his idealized vision of Daisy Buchanan. However, despite his efforts, the green light represents an elusive and unattainable goal that continually moves further away. The metaphor of “beating on, boats against the current” conveys the sense of striving and struggling against the inevitable forces of fate and the inability to escape the past. This quote suggests that the American Dream, with its promises of success and happiness, is ultimately an unachievable and fleeting illusion.
futility of the American Dream 2
Quote: “I see now that this has been a story of the West, after all” (Chapter 9)
Literary Technique: Irony
Explanation: This quote highlights the futility of the American Dream by suggesting that the characters in the novel, despite their pursuit of wealth and success, are inherently ill-suited for the Eastern lifestyle. The irony lies in the fact that despite their efforts to achieve the American Dream and assimilate into the glamorous and wealthy East, they ultimately find themselves unfulfilled and disconnected. This quote questions the viability of the American Dream, suggesting that it may be an unattainable ideal for those who do not naturally fit into the desired social milieu.
illusion vs reality 1
Quote: “No amount of fire or freshness can challenge what a man will store up in his ghostly heart.” (Chapter 5)
Literary Technique: Metaphor
Explanation: This quote delves into the theme of illusion and reality by highlighting the idea that people carry their past experiences and emotions within them. It suggests that no matter how extravagant or impressive one’s outward appearance may be, it cannot conceal the truth that lies within a person’s innermost self. The quote emphasizes the contrast between the illusions that people project outwardly and the reality of their inner thoughts and feelings.
illusion vs reality 2
Quote: “They’re a rotten crowd,” I shouted across the lawn. “You’re worth the whole damn bunch put together.” (Chapter 8)
Literary Technique: Foreshadowing
Explanation: This quote touches on the theme of illusion and reality through the character of Gatsby. In this scene, Nick defends Gatsby against the judgmental and morally corrupt individuals attending his parties. Nick’s proclamation suggests that Gatsby possesses genuine worth and integrity compared to the superficial and illusory lives of those around him. However, as the story unfolds, it becomes clear that even Gatsby himself is not exempt from the illusions he has constructed, ultimately leading to his downfall. The quote hints at the contrast between the illusory perception of greatness and the underlying reality of Gatsby’s tragic fate.
moral corruption and social decay 1
Quote: “He must have looked up at an unfamiliar sky through frightening leaves and shivered as he found what a grotesque thing a rose is.” (Chapter 6)
Literary Technique: Symbolism and Imagery
Explanation: This quote, from Chapter 6, reflects the moral corruption and social decay experienced by Jay Gatsby. It suggests that Gatsby’s pursuit of wealth and social status led him astray, distorting his perception of beauty and reality. The symbolism of the “grotesque” rose and the raw sunlight symbolizes the disillusionment and harshness of the world he encounters. The quote underscores the moral decay and disillusionment faced by characters who become consumed by their desires and the illusory promises of the American Dream.
moral corruption and social decay 2
Quote: “I couldn’t forgive him or like him, but I saw that what he had done was, to him, entirely justified.” (Chapter 9)
Literary Technique: Irony
Explanation: This quote, from Chapter 3, delves into the moral corruption and social decay present in the characters’ actions. It reflects Nick’s understanding that although he cannot condone or sympathise with their behavior, they perceive their actions as justified. The irony lies in the fact that their justifications are rooted in their own self-interest and carelessness. The quote underscores the moral ambiguity and confusion within the characters, highlighting the decay of values and the absence of ethical grounding in their pursuit of personal desires.
