GATSBY's ROLE
Gatsby himself is the prime example of an American Dream in this chapter. The young James Gatz created an alternate identity of himself, striving to fulfil his dreams. Jay Gatsby represents everything that young James Gatz wanted to be, who strived to become the man that he wanted to be. After much work and time, he achieved the American Dream, going from a person of little wealth to one of the greatest presence in upper class, earning his money and status through his own efforts: a classic rags to riches concept of the American Dream.
Significant quote about Gatsby
"The truth was that Jay Gatsby of West Egg, Long Island, sprang from his Platonic conception of himself" (Fitzgerald, 104). This quote was said by Nick explaining the theme of the American Dream. This quote itself tells the reader how James Gatz persona of Jay Gatsby was created by himself, modelling himself of his own ideal version of "Jay Gatsby." Jay Gatsby is the illusion that young James Gatz created for himself, and represents everything that James Gatz wanted to be - wealthy, successful, and powerful.