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Examples Of Superficiality In The Great Gatsby

418 Words2 Pages

Through Daisy Buchanan, Fitzgerald exemplifies the motifs of illusion and superficiality to show his theme of how wealth can have an everlasting corrupting influence on a person's true character. Fitzgerald explores the motif of illusion through Daisy Buchanan within her complicated relationship with Gatsby. From the moment Gatsby and Daisy met, he had “believed in the green light, [and] the orgastic future” (Fitzgerald 180) with her. This impossible standard he had set and chased for with Daisy was an unreachable future that highlights the illusion of perfection he created around her. However, Gatsby eventually realizes that she could never truly measure up to what he had put in his mind. The narrative reflects this disconnect: "There must …show more content…

The true meaning behind Gatsby’s lust for Daisy is not about who she truly is or her real character; rather, Fitzgerald leans into the concept of Gatsby’s illustrious dream that could never be achieved. This ties into how countless aspiring citizens who came to America during the 1920s chased after an impossible “American dream” that could never be attained. Daisy Buchanan’s character also dives into the idea of superficiality, much like many other characters, which is particularly evident in her decisions and values. The attractiveness of Daisy is inherently due to her lust for intense wealth, an observation made by Gatsby when he notes, “Her voice is full of money” (Fitzgerald 115). This statement clearly shows how her allure is deeply rooted in her superficial ways, making her appeal more materialistic rather than sincere. Furthermore, her shallow priorities and utmost concerns with men are revealed when the narrator, Nick, states, “She wanted her life shaped now, immediately—and the decision must be made by some force—of love, of money, of unquestionable practicality—that was close at hand” (Fitzgerald

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