Examples Of Materialism In The Great Gatsby

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In the Great Gatsby, tropological is used to portray that living the "American dream" doesn’t necessarily provide one with ultimate happiness through the use of the green light, the weather, and the poster of the eyes in the City of Ashes. The green light at the end of Daisy’s dock symbolizes Gatsby’s hopes and dreams, representing his typical “American Dream” of being with Daisy. The green light appears impossible to reach, just like Daisy had been five years ago when Gatsby couldn’t return to her with empty hands. In a way, the green light also represents society’s hope and the impossibility of achieving the typical, materialistic American Dream. Second, the weather matches the several emotional and narrative tones of the story. When Gatsby …show more content…

The beginning of the movie starts off with the beautiful scenery and luxurious mansions of Long Island. This represents the lives of those living lavish lifestyles with unlimited wealth. As portrayed in the movie, Tom, Daisy, Jordan and people of the same status within the society do not have to work and spend most of their time amusing themselves to their liking. However, it shows that corruption has led these characters into a dishonest lifestyle, and is beginning to ruin them. On the other hand, it is different for Gatsby who was not born into wealth. In the movie, there are several occasions where Gatsby has to take calls from different people in order to keep his business running whereas there is no sign of work amongst Tom, Daisy, or Jordan. Next, New York City is a place with all the mystery and beauty. It is a place for misbehaving (Tom’s affairs), an escape to something different (Myrtle’s life in the Valley of Ashes), and the perfect location for business. People in New York City are there to have fun, but are aware of their opportunities in achieving success as well. In this city, the colour of someone’s skin in disregarded and this is shown when Tom, Jordan, and Nick are driving in the city and see rich African-Americans being driven around by a white chauffeur. Finally, the Valley of Ashes represents the reality of those with little to no money like Myrtle and George.  It is a destroyed, dirty, and poor area in comparison to the bright lights of the city and the secure, beautiful Long Island.  It can be perceived as a place of death and despair rather than one of life and hope. The first time this city comes into view in the movie, George is seen working with his face covered in grime from the dusty and murky air. This area truly represents the difficulties the people in

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