From Conflict to Identity: Main Issues Explored in US Literary Education - Sykalo Eugen 2023

How does the use of symbolism contribute to the themes of The Great Gatsby?

In F. Scott Fitzgerald's iconic novel, "The Great Gatsby," the masterful utilization of symbolism stands as a testament to the author's literary genius and enriches the thematic tapestry of the work. Through a myriad of symbolic elements, Fitzgerald illuminates the overarching themes of the elusive American Dream, the corrupting influence of wealth, and the destructive power of illusion. These symbols, ranging from the green light to the Valley of Ashes and the eyes of Dr. T.J. Eckleburg, coalesce to create a profound exploration of the human condition and the illusions that permeate the lives of the characters.

At the heart of the novel lies the symbol of the green light, situated at the end of Daisy Buchanan's dock. This shimmering beacon serves as a metaphorical representation of Gatsby's dreams, aspirations, and his relentless pursuit of an unattainable ideal. The green light, with its ethereal glow, encapsulates the allure of the American Dream and the promise of a better future. It symbolizes Gatsby's longing for wealth, social status, and the chance to recapture the love of Daisy, a symbol of his past and his desires. The green light, situated across the water, represents the ever-elusive nature of Gatsby's dreams, forever out of reach. Through this symbol, Fitzgerald explores the theme of the corrupting influence of the American Dream, revealing its hollowness and the disillusionment that accompanies its pursuit.

Furthermore, the Valley of Ashes emerges as a powerful symbol of the moral and social decay lurking beneath the surface of the Roaring Twenties. This desolate wasteland, situated between West Egg and New York City, represents the consequences of unchecked materialism and the disparity between the rich and the poor. The Valley of Ashes serves as a stark contrast to the opulent wealth and excesses of the East and West Eggs, symbolizing the marginalized and forgotten individuals who suffer the consequences of a society consumed by greed and superficiality. The ash-covered landscape and the desolate lives of its inhabitants mirror the moral bankruptcy and the spiritual emptiness that pervade the world of the novel. Through this symbol, Fitzgerald critiques the illusion of prosperity and exposes the dark underbelly of the Jazz Age.

Moreover, the eyes of Dr. T.J. Eckleburg, looming over the Valley of Ashes, become a symbol of moral ambiguity, the loss of spiritual values, and the erosion of societal ethics. These enormous and billboard-like eyes, framed by a pair of faded spectacles, represent the vacant and unseeing gaze of God or a higher power, overseeing the moral decay of society. The eyes also allude to the loss of traditional values and the growing cynicism of the age. They serve as a constant reminder of the characters' moral transgressions, their empty pursuits, and the hollowness of their lives. Through this symbol, Fitzgerald exposes the erosion of moral values and the spiritual vacuum that engulfs the characters.

Furthermore, the symbol of the color yellow pervades the novel, representing both decadence and corruption. The yellow symbolism manifests in the opulent parties at Gatsby's mansion, the yellow-colored car driven by Gatsby himself, and the golden and luxurious aspects of the characters' lives. Yellow symbolizes the pursuit of wealth, pleasure, and social status, but also serves as a warning of the inherent dangers and moral compromises that accompany such pursuits. The color yellow carries a dual meaning, encompassing both the allure of the material world and the inherent emptiness and moral decay that lie beneath its shiny veneer. Fitzgerald employs this symbol to critique the excesses of the era and to explore the corrupting influence of wealth and materialism.

Additionally, the symbol of the clock becomes a representation of the relentless passage of time and the impossibility of recapturing the past. The ticking clock, often mentioned throughout the novel, underscores the fleeting nature of happiness and the futility of trying to recreate or hold onto moments that have already slipped away. The clock serves as a constant reminder of the characters' inability to escape the consequences of their past actions and the irreversible march of time. Through this symbol, Fitzgerald explores the themes of nostalgia, the transience of life, and the tragic nature of human existence.

The masterful use of symbolism in F. Scott Fitzgerald's "The Great Gatsby" contributes to the profound exploration of its central themes. The symbols of the green light, the Valley of Ashes, the eyes of Dr. T.J. Eckleburg, the color yellow, and the clock all enrich the narrative, providing layers of meaning and offering insights into the complexities of human desires, illusions, and moral decay. Fitzgerald's skillful implementation of symbolism elevates the novel to a timeless masterpiece, delving into the universal yearnings for love, success, and the illusory pursuit of happiness. Through these symbols, "The Great Gatsby" stands as a poignant critique of the American Dream, exposing the emptiness that lurks beneath the glittering surface of a society consumed by materialism and superficiality.