Consequences In The Great Gatsby

The Influence of Satisfaction and Regret on Human Actions in The Great Gatsby

In F. Scott Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby, the author explores the powerful impact of satisfaction and regret on an individual's actions, showing how emotions often guide people to make rash decisions. Jay Gatsby is a man who becomes consumed by his desires, leading him to act impulsively and relentlessly to pursue satisfaction due to past regret. Gatsby's determined pursuit, fueled by overpowering emotions, reminds individuals of the tragic consequences that can occur when they act without caution. Gatsby's relentless pursuit of unattainable dreams compels him to be led by regret, as he creates illusions of satisfaction that can never truly be achieved, influencing

Gatsby's enduring dedication to creating a perfect future with Daisy blinds him to the reality of their relationship. Despite Daisy's marriage to Tom, Gatsby remains convinced he can win Daisy back with love. The unrealistic pursuit of winning Daisy leads to tragic consequences, as he takes the blame for Daisy's actions, ultimately facing his demise when Goerge "shoots him in the pool of his mansion." Gatsby's death highlights the destructive nature of extreme feelings of regret and satisfaction, driving individuals to lose touch with reality. The novel vividly depicts how Gatby's obsession with Daisy isolates him from society and distorts his life purpose. Gatsby gazes at "the green light at the end of Daisy's dock," symbolizing his hopes and dreams for a future with Daisy he can't attain. Nick witnesses Gatsby's "overwhelming focus on his fantasy with Daisy," recognizing how this devotion leaves him unaware of the world around him. Consequently, Gatsby's self-centred pursuit of satisfaction hinders him from forming genuine connections, leaving him lonely and vulnerable in his quest for

Even after Gatsby's death, his unachievable dream shapes the actions of other characters, such as his close friend Nick. Nick becomes disillusioned with the lavish lifestyle of the wealthy elite during Gatsby's life and later decides to "return to his more humble lifestyle" after witnessing the negative effects of the rich lifestyle. Gatsby's emotional outburst during an argument with Tom, where he declares that "Daisy is leaving you," reveals how his tense feelings lead him to act impulsively, driven by the fear of losing her once again. Moreover, Gatsby's desire for Daisy links with his identity, prioritizing emotional fulfillment over practical considerations. Gatby's strong influence on Daisy prompts her to react, claiming, "I never loved Tom," suggesting that Gatsby's behaviour instills fear in her, pressuring a response influenced by his presence. Nick wisely says, "We reach for success in the future, seeking to escape and mend the past," displaying how the desire for dreams beyond reach can significantly shape an individual's future actions. This powerful message indicates how people may unknowingly repeat past mistakes or make irrational choices driven by emotions linked to unfulfilled desires, leading to a potentially devastating future influenced by unresolved aspects of the