Why Is Wealth Important In The Great Gatsby

Due to the power and opportunities it grants individuals, wealth is arguably the most desired thing in life. Throughout the history of society, an individual’s status has been largely defined by the amount of money they have. In addition to the financial power it holds, wealth can often play a large role in the dynamic of relationships. The possession, or lack of wealth, directs the motives and actions of individuals who are in pursuit of its advantages. In The Great Gatsby, by F. Scott Fitzgerald, the influence of wealth in relationships is highlighted through the interactions of Daisy and Gatsby, Tom and Myrtle, and Nick and Jordan.

The origin of Daisy and Gatsby’s relationship, dating back to Louisville, is directly rooted in wealth. Gatsby,

The true motive for Gatsby’s pursuit is revealed in chapter seven when he states, “‘Her voice is full of money'” (120). Putting aside redeeming qualities, the reason Gatsby was initially attracted to Daisy was because of the wealth that came with her and her lineage. She was the golden girl, and Gatsby was willing to do anything to win her affection, including creating this wealthy facade. This direct influence of wealth is what made their relationship possible in the first place. Without Daisy’s status and wealth, Gatsby likely would have never pursued her when they first met in Louisville. After the war separates the couple, Daisy furthers her pursuit of wealth and status by marrying Tom Buchanan. Understanding the influence that money had on their relationship, Gatsby resurrects his wealthy image to once again win Daisy over. Through illegal methods and lavish parties, Gatsby creates a name of wealth and status for himself throughout the city. After Nick is able to set up an afternoon date between the two , Gatsby is able to win over the affection Daisy has to give. The feelings she once had for him and the wealth he has obtained allows Gatsby to buy a piece of her love. When Tom suspects that there is

Nick, who works in the city as a bonds salesman, is not exactly considered wealthy, but is still able to afford a comfortable lifestyle for himself. His relationship with Jordan can be described as one of indifference. He is open to exploring the possibility of a relationship with Jordan, but is not entering with ulterior motives. Jordan, who is a professional golfer, is well off financially and exhibits a similar curiosity towards dating. As an athlete, she travels often and does not feel rushed to get married. With a solid income, and no real need for material wealth, Nick is similarly able to pursue his dating life in a nonchalant manner. After getting to know each other for a period of time, Nick states, “She is incurably dishonest. She wasn’t able to be at a disadvantage” (58). Nick is able to look past the wealth and fame of Jordan and view her for the person she is. The two part romantic ways towards the end of the novel. Jordan was for the most part aloof towards the relationship and eventually gets engaged to a different man. Because both Nick and Jordan were financially stable, they didn’t view the other’s wealth as a factor in their relationship. When money was essentially taken out of the equation, the two were able to form romantic opinions based on the other’s