The Great Gatsby, written by F. Scott Fitzgerald, has now reached its 100th anniversary and has sold over 30 million copies. Despite its age, some may argue that the novel is no longer relevant in today's society. However, in his essay "Why Every American Should Read The Great Gatsby Again", Clifton Spargo argues that the novel is not only relevant, but also essential for understanding American society. In this essay, I will argue for the continued relevance of The Great Gatsby by analyzing the novel's portrayal of the American Dream and its exploration of societal class and power dynamics.
First, it is important to consider the novel's portrayal of the American Dream. The American Dream, the idea that through hard work and determination anyone can achieve success and prosperity, is a central theme in The Great Gatsby. Spargo argues that this theme is still highly relevant today, stating, "The Great Gatsby is not just a novel about the excesses of the Roaring Twenties, but a novel about the excesses of the American Dream." This is evident in the quote from the novel, "It makes me sad because I've been everywhere and seen everything and done everything" spoken by the novel's protagonist, Jay Gatsby. This quote demonstrates the emptiness and hollowness of the American Dream, as Gatsby has achieved all of
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Spargo states, "The Great Gatsby is a novel that forces us to confront the ways in which class shapes our lives and our perceptions." This is evident in the quote from the novel, "I hope she'll be a fool -- that's the best thing a girl can be in this world, a beautiful little fool." spoken by Daisy Buchanan. This quote demonstrates the limited expectations and roles for women in the wealthy, upper class society depicted in the book and how societal expectations and power dynamics can shape and restrict the lives of individuals, particularly