In F. Scott Fitzgerald’s timeless novel, The Great Gatsby and Woody Allen’s motion picture, Midnight in Paris, the composers utilise the context of the alluring Jazz age in the United States and the Crazy years in Paris. This is done to construct compelling narratives that are moulded to exhibit both ubiquitous and perpetuating ideas of the idealisation of the past, the inability to achieve one’s dream, and the corruption and superficiality of the upper class. This serves as a social commentary on the tendencies of human nature and social constructs within society. IDEA 1 TEXT 1 In his novel Great Gatsby, F. Scott Fitzgerald explores the idea of the idealisation of the past and the inability to achieve one’s dreams. Throughout the text, Jay Gatsby’s relentless pursuit of attracting Daisy’s affection and reliving their former relationship where a new lifestyle of wealth and disillusionment is orchestrated for her appeal. When told he couldn’t repeat the past, Gatsby enthusiastically declares "Can't repeat the past?...Why of course you can!” in response to Nick’s comment. The rhetorical question challenges and defies the notion of inevitability while highlighting his ambitious desire to recapture the past with Daisy. His idealisation of their past relationship is tainted as he is fixated on his delusional …show more content…
The stark contrast in lighting tones serves as a poignant visual metaphor that evokes the romanticisation Gil has for the past, reinforcing his idealised lifestyle. This juxtaposes with the present, appearing mundane and monotonous to his perspective. His transition is not only met with confusion but further intensifies his discontent with the present, conveying his inner turmoil of yearning for an elusive