Monday, March 27, 2017

What are some contrasting elements between Gatsby's parties and the funeral?

In contrast to the descriptions of Gatsby's parties, which are sprawling affairs, full of people and lively activity, Gatsby's funeral is described as quiet and attended only by Nick, Gatsby's father, the minister, and "the man with owl-eyed glasses" who liked Gatsby's books.
The loneliness of Gatsby's funeral as compared to his parties enhances the superficial quality of the parties; no matter how many people claimed closeness to Gatsby as a way to improve their own social standing, the rarity of Gatsby's actual friendships is undeniable. As well, Gatsby's funeral takes place in a moody setting of rain and "soggy ground." The imagery of rain suggests tears, tears shed only by nature as few humans appear to care that Gatsby has died. The atmosphere of the funeral is solemn, uncomfortable, and cold, an atmosphere that contrasts the excitement and heat of Gatsby's parties, generated by energetic dancing and drinking.

No comments:

Post a Comment

Summarize the major research findings of "Toward an experimental ecology of human development."

Based on findings of prior research, the author, Bronfenbrenner proposes that methods for natural observation research have been applied in ...