Relationship of Gatsby and Daisy Buchanan

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The Relationship of Gatsby and Daisy in The Great Gatsby At the heart of F. Scott Fitzgerald's novel, The Great Gatsby, there is a theme of desire, an unshakable quest by Jay Gatsby set in motion by the beauty of Daisy Buchanan. Yet, when Jay and Daisy are together, considerable awkwardness is displayed between these two characters, and this awkward atmosphere is primarily the result of the actions of Jay Gatsby. The uncomfortable relationship between Gatsby and Daisy is evidenced during a meeting that might be compared to that of two school children. Both characters seem to rely on the presence of a third person (Nick), who supplies some sort of reassurance and security, especially for Gatsby. The reader is first confronted with a suspicion that the meeting will be filled with nervousness, when Gatsby subtly tries to ask Nick to be present throughout Daisy's visit, and to organize the meeting. Nick is rather reluctant to get involved, but Gatsby persists, and even goes as far as offering to "bribe" Nick to do so. After these early signs of awkwardness, a meeting is arranged, and Gatsby awaits the arrival of Daisy at Nick's home. Just as Gatsby is thinking about leaving, Daisy's car pulls up, and she duly arrives without her husband. At this point one can understand the awkwardness of the meeting, as Gatsby is after all expressing interest in a married woman. However it is mainly the fact that Gatsby does not have much contact to people, and thus is not very good in handling such confrontations. This idea of him not ha... ... middle of paper ... ...y and Daisy. He seems to supply Gatsby with a certain amount of security, and confidence. Finally, through the numerous examples discussed, one can deduce that there is considerable awkwardness between these two characters, and that this atmosphere is mainly portrayed through Gatsby as opposed to Daisy. She seems to be just as insecure, but doesn't let it show as much. Furthermore their meeting seems to be very childish, and often reminds the reader of meetings between childhood sweethearts. The only fact that seems typical for such a meeting between adults, is when the conversation falls on the weather. Weather is a popular topic amongst adults, who turn to it when they are unsure of what to talk about. "What do you think of that? It's stopped raining."

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