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

What is the role of the American Dream in F. Scott Fitzgerald's “The Diamond as Big as the Ritz”?

In F. Scott Fitzgerald's dazzling short story, "The Diamond as Big as the Ritz," the concept of the American Dream takes on a fascinating and subversive form. Set against the backdrop of the Jazz Age, a time of excess and unbridled ambition, Fitzgerald presents a scathing critique of the American Dream and its potential for corruption and moral decay. Through the extraordinary wealth and extraordinary consequences that unfold in the story, Fitzgerald explores the darker undercurrents of the pursuit of wealth and power, challenging the notion that the American Dream is synonymous with unmitigated success and happiness.

At its core, "The Diamond as Big as the Ritz" serves as a cautionary tale, warning against the dangers of unchecked ambition and the pursuit of wealth at any cost. The story follows the young protagonist, John T. Unger, as he becomes entangled in the lives of the Washingtons, an immensely wealthy family who have discovered a secret diamond mine of unparalleled magnitude. The discovery of this colossal diamond becomes a metaphor for the allure and temptation of the American Dream—a dream that promises boundless opportunities and unimaginable wealth.

Fitzgerald presents the American Dream in "The Diamond as Big as the Ritz" as a double-edged sword—a tantalizing prospect that holds the potential for both unlimited riches and devastating consequences. As John is drawn into the world of the Washingtons, he is seduced by the opulence and extravagance that wealth affords. He becomes intoxicated by the promise of unimaginable wealth and the lifestyle it promises, reflecting the allure of the American Dream in its most extravagant form.

However, beneath the shimmering surface lies a darker truth. The Washingtons, in their pursuit of wealth and power, have become isolated from the rest of society, trapped in their own gilded cage. They are bound by the secrecy of their diamond mine, forced to protect their wealth at all costs, even if it means resorting to murder and deception. In this way, Fitzgerald exposes the inherent corruption and moral bankruptcy that can accompany the relentless pursuit of the American Dream.

Symbolism plays a significant role in "The Diamond as Big as the Ritz" as Fitzgerald employs vivid and evocative imagery to convey his themes. The colossal diamond itself becomes a potent symbol of the American Dream—a dazzling manifestation of wealth and desire that captivates those who encounter it. It represents the allure of material possessions, the temptation to accumulate wealth, and the belief that monetary success equates to ultimate happiness. However, the diamond's immense value also reflects the destructive potential of the American Dream, as its discovery leads to a series of catastrophic events and moral compromises.

Furthermore, the remote location of the Washingtons' estate, hidden away from the prying eyes of the world, serves as a metaphor for the isolation and detachment that can accompany the pursuit of wealth and power. The estate becomes a microcosm of the American Dream, where the privileged few revel in their opulence while remaining disconnected from the realities of the outside world. This isolation underscores the moral decay that pervades the story and highlights the dangers of losing touch with one's humanity in the relentless quest for success.

Through his exploration of the American Dream in "The Diamond as Big as the Ritz," Fitzgerald challenges the reader to question the values and ideals associated with the pursuit of wealth and power. He exposes the perils of unchecked ambition and materialism, reminding us that true happiness and fulfillment cannot be found solely in material possessions. The story serves as a cautionary reminder that the American Dream, when pursued without regard for the well-being of others, can lead to moral compromise, isolation, and the loss of one's humanity.

F. Scott Fitzgerald's "The Diamond as Big as the Ritz" presents a searing critique of the American Dream, dismantling the notion that unbridled wealth and power equate to ultimate happiness. Through its compelling characters, vivid imagery, and sharp social commentary, the story serves as a cautionary tale, urging readers to question the values and ideals associated with the pursuit of material success. Fitzgerald's exploration of the dark underbelly of the American Dream highlights the potential for corruption, moral decay, and isolation that can accompany the relentless pursuit of wealth and power. Ultimately, "The Diamond as Big as the Ritz" invites us to reflect on the true essence of the American Dream and to reconsider the meaning of genuine fulfillment and happiness in our lives.