The Great Gatsby Wealth And Happiness - 1291 Words

A philosopher named Democritus once said, â€Å"Happiness resides not in possessions, and not in gold, happiness dwells in the soul.† Throughout the ages, wealth and riches have always seemed to catch the eyes of men. Numerous people believe even today that money is the source of happiness. As seen in The Great Gatsby, wealth and happiness are two major themes portrayed over and over again by Fitzgerald’s characters. Many of the characters in the story gain wealth believing that with riches, they can soon gain happiness. Yet time and time again the characters find themselves forlorn and empty, seeking out alcohol and secret lovers to fill the vacant space where happiness should be. Even with all their money, they seem to never achieve true†¦show more content†¦Gatsby is introduced immediately as a mystery, a rich mystery. Every weekend he throws lavish parties full of guests, yet seems to remain empty and morose to the reader. What else could Gatsby possibly wa nt within all his riches? Jay Gatsby, just like the rest of the numerous characters in the story, has a gaping empty hole in his life, a hole where happiness should be held. After looking closely at Gatsby’s life, the question must be asked. Can money actually bring happiness? Or the opposite side of that, can money destroy a person’s happiness? Many people see money as an equal to contentment. They believe that if all they have is wealth and riches, they will be totally and completely happily satisfied in their lives, that they can buy their own happiness. This common belief is false. True happiness cannot be bought, like many things sold to men. True happiness has no price. It is a state of mind that one must have. Jay Gatsby is a prime example of this. Gatsby’s life is a life full of fortune, parties, and people. Yet the man is still unhappy and is often seen in the beginning of the book looking empty and alone. â€Å"Something in his leisurely movements and the secure position of his feet upon the lawn suggested that it was Mr. Gatsby himself...I decided to call to him...But I didn’t call to him, for he gave a sudden imitationShow MoreRelated6. The Value/Danger Of Wealth. These Few Words By John1254 Words   |  6 Pages6. The value/danger of wealth These few words by John Chrysostom â€Å"Nothing is more fallacious than wealth. It is hostile comrade, a domestic enemy.† after reading The Great Gatsby. During Twenties, the nation’s wealth doubled. Was wealth the greatest â€Å"happiness† to pursue? The impact of wealth can display one’s true identity. 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Scott Fitzgerald1143 Words   |  5 Pages Leveque AP Literature 23 September 2014 Money or Happiness Money is not the only factor involved in gaining social status and happiness. The Great Gatsby, by F. Scott Fitzgerald, is set in 1922, a time of social climbers and the need for money to have a sense of happiness and security in society. The common characterization throughout the novel portrays the common idea that money is a main priority, even before the character’s happiness. For example, the security of marrying into money and socialRead MoreThe Collapse of Dreams in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby783 Words   |  4 Pages  Ã‚  Ã‚   The novel, The Great Gatsby, written by F. Scott Fitzgerald, is about the American Dream, and the downfall of those who attempt to reach its illusionary goals. In the Great Gatsby the dream is that through wealth and power, one can acquire happiness. To get this happiness, Jay Gatsby must reach into the past and relive an old dream. 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