Themes:Time

Question 1

How does the motif of time manifest in Gatsby’s desires?

Answer 1

The motif of time reflects Gatsby’s desire to simultaneously relive the past with Daisy while pursuing his American Dream.

Question 2

What message does the motif of time convey?

Answer 2

The motif suggests that living in an idealized past prevents one from truly living in the present.

Question 3

How does Gatsby’s perception of time affect his relationship with Daisy?

Answer 3

Gatsby’s reluctance to acknowledge the gap between him and Daisy reflects his fantasy about her, demonstrating the magnitude of his self-imposed pseudo reality.

Question 4

How does Gatsby attempt to manipulate time to fulfill his desires?

Answer 4

Gatsby wants to repeat the past while urging Daisy to erase hers, highlighting his attempt to control time without recognizing its inevitable consequences.

Question 5

What does Myrtle’s attitude towards time reveal about her character?

Answer 5

‘you can’t live forever.’ Myrtle’s “carpe diem” attitude reflects her acceptance of Tom’s violence to attain materialistic and social gain, showing her recognition of time as a hindrance to achieving dreams.

Question 6

How does the broken clock symbolize Gatsby’s failure?

Answer 6

The broken clock foreshadows Gatsby’s futile attempts to control time and possess Daisy, highlighting his wasted efforts and refusal to move on.