The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald is a story set in 1920s New York City that focuses on the story of Jay Gatsby, a mysterious wealthy man who has his heart set on Daisy Buchanan, a wealthy woman and past lover, but this seemingly rejuvenated flame is complicated by Daisy’s husband Tom Buchanan. This story is told from the viewpoint of the narrator, Nick Carraway, and throughout the summer we see the story of love develop and end in a tragic turn. While many view following their dreams as life’s ultimate purpose, Fitzgerald reveals to readers that they should follow their dreams, but maintain balance and perspective in their lives. The novel reveals that while chasing one's dreams is admirable, becoming consumed by them, as seen in Gatsby's tragic story, can alter one's view and lead to disillusionment. Gatsby is the primary demonstration of what happens when one focuses too much on their …show more content…
When Gatsby is having a conversation with Nick, it is one of the earliest times in the book when we are clearly introduced to Gatsby’s unhealthy idealization of Daisy specifically. In this conversation Nick is trying to talk some sense into Gatsby with regard to Daisy,” I wouldn't ask too much of her. You can’t repeat the past”, to which Gatsby responds, “Can't repeat the past? Why, of course, you can!” (Fitzgerald 110). This belief that he can recreate the past is what leads to Gatsby’s whole life becoming consumed by the past. Gatsby’s whole life had been consumed by the “American dream” and his unending pursuit of Daisy, from buying a mansion across the bay, to throwing extravagant parties hoping one day she might show up. Gatsby nearly planned every detail of his life around his pursuit of Daisy, and this obsession is what prevents him from ever being truly happy with his life. In