John Bocauto
Ms. Balzarini
American Lit
05/5/23
The Determined Gatsby
"Whether old money or new money, all money ain't good money." (Nate niz means) Someone so determined for love that he tried to do everything he could. "The Great Gatsby" is a novel by F. Scott Fitzgerald that tells the story of a wealthy man who throws extravagant parties to impress his former love, Daisy Buchanan. The story is set in the 1920s and talks about the themes of love, wealth, and the American dream. Gatsby sees himself as someone who is determined, wealthy, and who can achieve anything he sets his mind to. Tom sees Gatsby as a fraud, a rival who is entitled to his wealth. Gatsby sees himself as someone who is determined, wealthy, and who can achieve anything
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"I picked him for a bootlegger the first time I saw him, and I wasn’t far wrong." (Fitzgerald 103) Tom views Gatsby's wealth as proof of his being a fraud because of his illegal connections and involvement in illegal activities. Furthermore, Tom thinks that Gatsby's illegal dealing of alcohol implies him being a criminal, and Tom believes that is how Gatsby got his money. Tom "made a small investigation of this fellow," believing that Gatsby is a criminal. (Fitzgerald 93) By thinking that Gatsby is a criminal, Tom did some research and believes that Gatsby is a dangerous outsider and that he is more than a violent criminal. Additionally, Tom's attempts to put down Gatsby go beyond pointing out his flaws, which are motivated by his fear of losing his privilege in society. Tom is afraid of what Gatsby will do to Daisy. "I suppose Daisy’ll call too." (Fitzgerald 113) Tom feels scared by Gatsby's attraction and his ability to draw people in because he is aware of the past love between Gatsby and Daisy. Tom dislikes Gatsby because he wishes to avoid facing his flaws and his fears over losing Daisy to someone who appears to have everything to offer her that he is unable