Chicago: The Windy City or the Shady City?
So, you're wondering about Chicago in The Great Gatsby, huh? Well, let's dive into the murky waters of the Roaring Twenties and see what we can dredge up.
Chicago: More Than Just Deep Dish
Now, before we get all Scarface on you, let's be clear: Chicago doesn't actually appear as a character in the novel. It's more like a shadowy figure lurking in the background, a constant whisper in the wind. But boy, does it pack a punch!
Fitzgerald paints Chicago with broad strokes – a city of crime, corruption, and ill-gotten gains. It's the dark underbelly of the Jazz Age, the place where dreams go to die (or, more accurately, where dreams are funded).
Gatsby's Shady Past
Gatsby, our mysterious millionaire with a penchant for throwing epic parties, is deeply connected to Chicago. The city is mentioned several times, and it's heavily implied that his vast wealth is, let's say, questionable. Some might even say it's straight-up dirty money.
The infamous phone call from Chicago in Chapter 9 is like a neon sign flashing "Shady Business". It's a brief but chilling moment that reinforces the idea of Gatsby as a man with a past as murky as the Chicago River.
What Does It All Mean?
So, what's the big deal? Why does Fitzgerald bother bringing up Chicago so much? Well, it's all about contrast. The glamorous world of East Egg, with its old money and socialite airs, is juxtaposed with the gritty, underworld image of Chicago. It highlights the moral decay of the Jazz Age and the lengths people will go to for wealth and status.
In short, Chicago in The Great Gatsby is a symbol of the American Dream gone wrong. It's a reminder that not all that glitters is gold, and that sometimes, the price of success is far higher than we're willing to admit.
How to Crack the Chicago Code
- How to spot the Chicago connection: Pay attention to mentions of the city and any characters associated with it.
- How to understand the symbolism: Think about how Chicago contrasts with the world of the novel.
- How to appreciate the author's craft: Consider how Fitzgerald uses Chicago to enhance the overall themes of the book.
- How to avoid getting lost in the underworld: Remember, it's just a novel! Don't start digging for buried treasure in your backyard.
- How to enjoy the story: Ultimately, The Great Gatsby is a fantastic novel, so sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride.