Potato

Chapter 1 By: Ciara Rafferty “You see I think everything’s terrible anyhow,” she went on in a convinced way. “Everybody thinks so—the most advanced people. And I know. I’vebeen everywhere and seen everything and done everything.” Her eyes flashed around her in a defiant way, rather like Tom’s, and she laughed with thrilling scorn. “Sophisticated—God I’m sophisticated!” (21).
This passage perfectly depicts the unhappiness that Daisy experiences from day to day. The life that she had made for herself is strictly to show. Life has misled her to work towards wealth and keep a high spot in society. But, instead of bringing happiness, this trail has led her to complete discontent and confusion.

When Daisy talks in this passage, it seems to be a desperate call. Daisy is trying to convince herself that she is sophisticated. She mentions the places that she has been and is trying to feed Nick information that would lead him to think that she is advanced. Nick believes she is at this moment, and some other people may, but she knows that it is not true. It is as if she is screaming about her sophistication at the end. She is afraid that Nick will figure her out, just like she is afraid the rest of society will judge her. Also, Fitzgerald mentions Tom in this passage, which reflects the unhappiness of other high-society members other than Daisy. Tom fears the judgment of others just as much and puts on a face for society to view. Daisy and Tom’s eyes are described as defiant. It is as if their eyes are rebelling against themselves, but eyes cannot lie and Nick sees that.

This passage also shows Daisy’s feelings as a woman. Daisy has to show society a pathetic side to her. Previous to this passage, she is telling Nick about having a baby girl. Daisy hopes that her baby will be “a beautiful little fool,” because that is the “best thing a girl can be in this world.” This clearly upsets Daisy but she tries to make it seem like it doesn’t and that things are the way they are for a reason. Society has molded Daisy into someone who has accepted her position as a woman. Although she has many choices to make, she maintains her fickle attitude and acts just as a woman was supposed to.

By: Jeremy Scher

Page 22: “The instant here voice broke off, ceasing to compel my attention, my belief, I felt the basic insincerity of what she had said. It made me uneasy, as though the whole evening had been a trick of some sort to exact a contributory emotion from me. I waited, and sure enough, in a moment she looked at me with an absolute smirk on her lovely face as if she had asserted her membership in a rather distinguished secret society to which she and Tom belonged.” Daisy seems to represent the typical upper class female in the early 20th century. Interestingly enough, despite her good economical fortune and social status, she is extremely uneasy and makes awkwardly imposing remarks to others, in particular the narrator. As a part of this upper class, she has an ego that needs to be nourished quite frequently, and she thirsts for recognition of her social ranking. She throws herself out there, flirting frivolously and begging others to acknowledge her marital achievements and her economic status. This recognition fuels her to continue her charade despite her inner contempt.

Daisy also tries to appeal to everyone and please people with her comments. Her remarks are meant to produce approving gestures from others rather than convey anything that she actually feels. In addition, she constantly asks people if they want to hear what she is about to say, presumably so that she has confirmation of their interest. Once again, this confirmation feeds her conscience, making her feel important and recognized.

Her character appears to be a criticism of the time period. The early 1900’s, sometimes called the “Gilded Age,” was a time filled with ostentatious displays of wealth. However, the character of Daisy shows us the tension and reality underneath the grand parties and ballrooms. Fitzgerald is also showing us that economic gains are achieved at much emotional cost, for here is a woman with everything imaginable who is tainted with cynicism and sorrow.

Finally, Daisy believes that she and Tom are part of a special secret society. This might explain why she still remains powerless in her marriage. It seems as though she is still in love with him, as she was when her marriage began. This becomes evident because despite her husband having an affair right in front of her eyes, she has done little to resolve what makes her uncomfortable. True love for Tom seems to be a viable reason, and perhaps she feels that speaking her mind would only anger him and thus hurt her even more. As the book progresses, we will definitely have to pay attention to how her role in her marriage evolves, and considering her inner turmoil, this change seems inevitable. Chapter 1 By: Ciara Rafferty “You see I think everything’s terrible anyhow,” she went on in a convinced way. “Everybody thinks so—the most advanced people. And I know. I’vebeen everywhere and seen everything and done everything.” Her eyes flashed around her in a defiant way, rather like Tom’s, and she laughed with thrilling scorn. “Sophisticated—God I’m sophisticated!” (21).
This passage perfectly depicts the unhappiness that Daisy experiences from day to day. The life that she had made for herself is strictly to show. Life has misled her to work towards wealth and keep a high spot in society. But, instead of bringing happiness, this trail has led her to complete discontent and confusion.

When Daisy talks in this passage, it seems to be a desperate call. Daisy is trying to convince herself that she is sophisticated. She mentions the places that she has been and is trying to feed Nick information that would lead him to think that she is advanced. Nick believes she is at this moment, and some other people may, but she knows that it is not true. It is as if she is screaming about her sophistication at the end. She is afraid that Nick will figure her out, just like she is afraid the rest of society will judge her. Also, Fitzgerald mentions Tom in this passage, which reflects the unhappiness of other high-society members other than Daisy. Tom fears the judgment of others just as much and puts on a face for society to view. Daisy and Tom’s eyes are described as defiant. It is as if their eyes are rebelling against themselves, but eyes cannot lie and Nick sees that.

This passage also shows Daisy’s feelings as a woman. Daisy has to show society a pathetic side to her. Previous to this passage, she is telling Nick about having a baby girl. Daisy hopes that her baby will be “a beautiful little fool,” because that is the “best thing a girl can be in this world.” This clearly upsets Daisy but she tries to make it seem like it doesn’t and that things are the way they are for a reason. Society has molded Daisy into someone who has accepted her position as a woman. Although she has many choices to make, she maintains her fickle attitude and acts just as a woman was supposed to.

By: Jeremy Scher

Page 22: “The instant here voice broke off, ceasing to compel my attention, my belief, I felt the basic insincerity of what she had said. It made me uneasy, as though the whole evening had been a trick of some sort to exact a contributory emotion from me. I waited, and sure enough, in a moment she looked at me with an absolute smirk on her lovely face as if she had asserted her membership in a rather distinguished secret society to which she and Tom belonged.” Daisy seems to represent the typical upper class female in the early 20th century. Interestingly enough, despite her good economical fortune and social status, she is extremely uneasy and makes awkwardly imposing remarks to others, in particular the narrator. As a part of this upper class, she has an ego that needs to be nourished quite frequently, and she thirsts for recognition of her social ranking. She throws herself out there, flirting frivolously and begging others to acknowledge her marital achievements and her economic status. This recognition fuels her to continue her charade despite her inner contempt.

Daisy also tries to appeal to everyone and please people with her comments. Her remarks are meant to produce approving gestures from others rather than convey anything that she actually feels. In addition, she constantly asks people if they want to hear what she is about to say, presumably so that she has confirmation of their interest. Once again, this confirmation feeds her conscience, making her feel important and recognized.

Her character appears to be a criticism of the time period. The early 1900’s, sometimes called the “Gilded Age,” was a time filled with ostentatious displays of wealth. However, the character of Daisy shows us the tension and reality underneath the grand parties and ballrooms. Fitzgerald is also showing us that economic gains are achieved at much emotional cost, for here is a woman with everything imaginable who is tainted with cynicism and sorrow.

Finally, Daisy believes that she and Tom are part of a special secret society. This might explain why she still remains powerless in her marriage. It seems as though she is still in love with him, as she was when her marriage began. This becomes evident because despite her husband having an affair right in front of her eyes, she has done little to resolve what makes her uncomfortable. True love for Tom seems to be a viable reason, and perhaps she feels that speaking her mind would only anger him and thus hurt her even more. As the book progresses, we will definitely have to pay attention to how her role in her marriage evolves, and considering her inner turmoil, this change seems inevitable.
Chapter 1 By: Ciara Rafferty “You see I think everything’s terrible anyhow,” she went on in a convinced way. “Everybody thinks so—the most advanced people. And I know. I’vebeen everywhere and seen everything and done everything.” Her eyes flashed around her in a defiant way, rather like Tom’s, and she laughed with thrilling scorn. “Sophisticated—God I’m sophisticated!” (21).
This passage perfectly depicts the unhappiness that Daisy experiences from day to day. The life that she had made for herself is strictly to show. Life has misled her to work towards wealth and keep a high spot in society. But, instead of bringing happiness, this trail has led her to complete discontent and confusion.

When Daisy talks in this passage, it seems to be a desperate call. Daisy is trying to convince herself that she is sophisticated. She mentions the places that she has been and is trying to feed Nick information that would lead him to think that she is advanced. Nick believes she is at this moment, and some other people may, but she knows that it is not true. It is as if she is screaming about her sophistication at the end. She is afraid that Nick will figure her out, just like she is afraid the rest of society will judge her. Also, Fitzgerald mentions Tom in this passage, which reflects the unhappiness of other high-society members other than Daisy. Tom fears the judgment of others just as much and puts on a face for society to view. Daisy and Tom’s eyes are described as defiant. It is as if their eyes are rebelling against themselves, but eyes cannot lie and Nick sees that.

This passage also shows Daisy’s feelings as a woman. Daisy has to show society a pathetic side to her. Previous to this passage, she is telling Nick about having a baby girl. Daisy hopes that her baby will be “a beautiful little fool,” because that is the “best thing a girl can be in this world.” This clearly upsets Daisy but she tries to make it seem like it doesn’t and that things are the way they are for a reason. Society has molded Daisy into someone who has accepted her position as a woman. Although she has many choices to make, she maintains her fickle attitude and acts just as a woman was supposed to.

By: Jeremy Scher

Page 22: “The instant here voice broke off, ceasing to compel my attention, my belief, I felt the basic insincerity of what she had said. It made me uneasy, as though the whole evening had been a trick of some sort to exact a contributory emotion from me. I waited, and sure enough, in a moment she looked at me with an absolute smirk on her lovely face as if she had asserted her membership in a rather distinguished secret society to which she and Tom belonged.” Daisy seems to represent the typical upper class female in the early 20th century. Interestingly enough, despite her good economical fortune and social status, she is extremely uneasy and makes awkwardly imposing remarks to others, in particular the narrator. As a part of this upper class, she has an ego that needs to be nourished quite frequently, and she thirsts for recognition of her social ranking. She throws herself out there, flirting frivolously and begging others to acknowledge her marital achievements and her economic status. This recognition fuels her to continue her charade despite her inner contempt.

Daisy also tries to appeal to everyone and please people with her comments. Her remarks are meant to produce approving gestures from others rather than convey anything that she actually feels. In addition, she constantly asks people if they want to hear what she is about to say, presumably so that she has confirmation of their interest. Once again, this confirmation feeds her conscience, making her feel important and recognized.

Her character appears to be a criticism of the time period. The early 1900’s, sometimes called the “Gilded Age,” was a time filled with ostentatious displays of wealth. However, the character of Daisy shows us the tension and reality underneath the grand parties and ballrooms. Fitzgerald is also showing us that economic gains are achieved at much emotional cost, for here is a woman with everything imaginable who is tainted with cynicism and sorrow.

Finally, Daisy believes that she and Tom are part of a special secret society. This might explain why she still remains powerless in her marriage. It seems as though she is still in love with him, as she was when her marriage began. This becomes evident because despite her husband having an affair right in front of her eyes, she has done little to resolve what makes her uncomfortable. True love for Tom seems to be a viable reason, and perhaps she feels that speaking her mind would only anger him and thus hurt her even more. As the book progresses, we will definitely have to pay attention to how her role in her marriage evolves, and considering her inner turmoil, this change seems inevitable.
Chapter 1 By: Ciara Rafferty “You see I think everything’s terrible anyhow,” she went on in a convinced way. “Everybody thinks so—the most advanced people. And I know. I’vebeen everywhere and seen everything and done everything.” Her eyes flashed around her in a defiant way, rather like Tom’s, and she laughed with thrilling scorn. “Sophisticated—God I’m sophisticated!” (21).
This passage perfectly depicts the unhappiness that Daisy experiences from day to day. The life that she had made for herself is strictly to show. Life has misled her to work towards wealth and keep a high spot in society. But, instead of bringing happiness, this trail has led her to complete discontent and confusion.

When Daisy talks in this passage, it seems to be a desperate call. Daisy is trying to convince herself that she is sophisticated. She mentions the places that she has been and is trying to feed Nick information that would lead him to think that she is advanced. Nick believes she is at this moment, and some other people may, but she knows that it is not true. It is as if she is screaming about her sophistication at the end. She is afraid that Nick will figure her out, just like she is afraid the rest of society will judge her. Also, Fitzgerald mentions Tom in this passage, which reflects the unhappiness of other high-society members other than Daisy. Tom fears the judgment of others just as much and puts on a face for society to view. Daisy and Tom’s eyes are described as defiant. It is as if their eyes are rebelling against themselves, but eyes cannot lie and Nick sees that.

This passage also shows Daisy’s feelings as a woman. Daisy has to show society a pathetic side to her. Previous to this passage, she is telling Nick about having a baby girl. Daisy hopes that her baby will be “a beautiful little fool,” because that is the “best thing a girl can be in this world.” This clearly upsets Daisy but she tries to make it seem like it doesn’t and that things are the way they are for a reason. Society has molded Daisy into someone who has accepted her position as a woman. Although she has many choices to make, she maintains her fickle attitude and acts just as a woman was supposed to.

By: Jeremy Scher

Page 22: “The instant here voice broke off, ceasing to compel my attention, my belief, I felt the basic insincerity of what she had said. It made me uneasy, as though the whole evening had been a trick of some sort to exact a contributory emotion from me. I waited, and sure enough, in a moment she looked at me with an absolute smirk on her lovely face as if she had asserted her membership in a rather distinguished secret society to which she and Tom belonged.” Daisy seems to represent the typical upper class female in the early 20th century. Interestingly enough, despite her good economical fortune and social status, she is extremely uneasy and makes awkwardly imposing remarks to others, in particular the narrator. As a part of this upper class, she has an ego that needs to be nourished quite frequently, and she thirsts for recognition of her social ranking. She throws herself out there, flirting frivolously and begging others to acknowledge her marital achievements and her economic status. This recognition fuels her to continue her charade despite her inner contempt.

Daisy also tries to appeal to everyone and please people with her comments. Her remarks are meant to produce approving gestures from others rather than convey anything that she actually feels. In addition, she constantly asks people if they want to hear what she is about to say, presumably so that she has confirmation of their interest. Once again, this confirmation feeds her conscience, making her feel important and recognized.

Her character appears to be a criticism of the time period. The early 1900’s, sometimes called the “Gilded Age,” was a time filled with ostentatious displays of wealth. However, the character of Daisy shows us the tension and reality underneath the grand parties and ballrooms. Fitzgerald is also showing us that economic gains are achieved at much emotional cost, for here is a woman with everything imaginable who is tainted with cynicism and sorrow.

Finally, Daisy believes that she and Tom are part of a special secret society. This might explain why she still remains powerless in her marriage. It seems as though she is still in love with him, as she was when her marriage began. This becomes evident because despite her husband having an affair right in front of her eyes, she has done little to resolve what makes her uncomfortable. True love for Tom seems to be a viable reason, and perhaps she feels that speaking her mind would only anger him and thus hurt her even more. As the book progresses, we will definitely have to pay attention to how her role in her marriage evolves, and considering her inner turmoil, this change seems inevitable.
Chapter 1 By: Ciara Rafferty “You see I think everything’s terrible anyhow,” she went on in a convinced way. “Everybody thinks so—the most advanced people. And I know. I’vebeen everywhere and seen everything and done everything.” Her eyes flashed around her in a defiant way, rather like Tom’s, and she laughed with thrilling scorn. “Sophisticated—God I’m sophisticated!” (21).
This passage perfectly depicts the unhappiness that Daisy experiences from day to day. The life that she had made for herself is strictly to show. Life has misled her to work towards wealth and keep a high spot in society. But, instead of bringing happiness, this trail has led her to complete discontent and confusion.

When Daisy talks in this passage, it seems to be a desperate call. Daisy is trying to convince herself that she is sophisticated. She mentions the places that she has been and is trying to feed Nick information that would lead him to think that she is advanced. Nick believes she is at this moment, and some other people may, but she knows that it is not true. It is as if she is screaming about her sophistication at the end. She is afraid that Nick will figure her out, just like she is afraid the rest of society will judge her. Also, Fitzgerald mentions Tom in this passage, which reflects the unhappiness of other high-society members other than Daisy. Tom fears the judgment of others just as much and puts on a face for society to view. Daisy and Tom’s eyes are described as defiant. It is as if their eyes are rebelling against themselves, but eyes cannot lie and Nick sees that.

This passage also shows Daisy’s feelings as a woman. Daisy has to show society a pathetic side to her. Previous to this passage, she is telling Nick about having a baby girl. Daisy hopes that her baby will be “a beautiful little fool,” because that is the “best thing a girl can be in this world.” This clearly upsets Daisy but she tries to make it seem like it doesn’t and that things are the way they are for a reason. Society has molded Daisy into someone who has accepted her position as a woman. Although she has many choices to make, she maintains her fickle attitude and acts just as a woman was supposed to.

By: Jeremy Scher

Page 22: “The instant here voice broke off, ceasing to compel my attention, my belief, I felt the basic insincerity of what she had said. It made me uneasy, as though the whole evening had been a trick of some sort to exact a contributory emotion from me. I waited, and sure enough, in a moment she looked at me with an absolute smirk on her lovely face as if she had asserted her membership in a rather distinguished secret society to which she and Tom belonged.” Daisy seems to represent the typical upper class female in the early 20th century. Interestingly enough, despite her good economical fortune and social status, she is extremely uneasy and makes awkwardly imposing remarks to others, in particular the narrator. As a part of this upper class, she has an ego that needs to be nourished quite frequently, and she thirsts for recognition of her social ranking. She throws herself out there, flirting frivolously and begging others to acknowledge her marital achievements and her economic status. This recognition fuels her to continue her charade despite her inner contempt.

Daisy also tries to appeal to everyone and please people with her comments. Her remarks are meant to produce approving gestures from others rather than convey anything that she actually feels. In addition, she constantly asks people if they want to hear what she is about to say, presumably so that she has confirmation of their interest. Once again, this confirmation feeds her conscience, making her feel important and recognized.

Her character appears to be a criticism of the time period. The early 1900’s, sometimes called the “Gilded Age,” was a time filled with ostentatious displays of wealth. However, the character of Daisy shows us the tension and reality underneath the grand parties and ballrooms. Fitzgerald is also showing us that economic gains are achieved at much emotional cost, for here is a woman with everything imaginable who is tainted with cynicism and sorrow.

Finally, Daisy believes that she and Tom are part of a special secret society. This might explain why she still remains powerless in her marriage. It seems as though she is still in love with him, as she was when her marriage began. This becomes evident because despite her husband having an affair right in front of her eyes, she has done little to resolve what makes her uncomfortable. True love for Tom seems to be a viable reason, and perhaps she feels that speaking her mind would only anger him and thus hurt her even more. As the book progresses, we will definitely have to pay attention to how her role in her marriage evolves, and considering her inner turmoil, this change seems inevitable.
Chapter 1 By: Ciara Rafferty “You see I think everything’s terrible anyhow,” she went on in a convinced way. “Everybody thinks so—the most advanced people. And I know. I’vebeen everywhere and seen everything and done everything.” Her eyes flashed around her in a defiant way, rather like Tom’s, and she laughed with thrilling scorn. “Sophisticated—God I’m sophisticated!” (21).
This passage perfectly depicts the unhappiness that Daisy experiences from day to day. The life that she had made for herself is strictly to show. Life has misled her to work towards wealth and keep a high spot in society. But, instead of bringing happiness, this trail has led her to complete discontent and confusion.

When Daisy talks in this passage, it seems to be a desperate call. Daisy is trying to convince herself that she is sophisticated. She mentions the places that she has been and is trying to feed Nick information that would lead him to think that she is advanced. Nick believes she is at this moment, and some other people may, but she knows that it is not true. It is as if she is screaming about her sophistication at the end. She is afraid that Nick will figure her out, just like she is afraid the rest of society will judge her. Also, Fitzgerald mentions Tom in this passage, which reflects the unhappiness of other high-society members other than Daisy. Tom fears the judgment of others just as much and puts on a face for society to view. Daisy and Tom’s eyes are described as defiant. It is as if their eyes are rebelling against themselves, but eyes cannot lie and Nick sees that.

This passage also shows Daisy’s feelings as a woman. Daisy has to show society a pathetic side to her. Previous to this passage, she is telling Nick about having a baby girl. Daisy hopes that her baby will be “a beautiful little fool,” because that is the “best thing a girl can be in this world.” This clearly upsets Daisy but she tries to make it seem like it doesn’t and that things are the way they are for a reason. Society has molded Daisy into someone who has accepted her position as a woman. Although she has many choices to make, she maintains her fickle attitude and acts just as a woman was supposed to.

By: Jeremy Scher

Page 22: “The instant here voice broke off, ceasing to compel my attention, my belief, I felt the basic insincerity of what she had said. It made me uneasy, as though the whole evening had been a trick of some sort to exact a contributory emotion from me. I waited, and sure enough, in a moment she looked at me with an absolute smirk on her lovely face as if she had asserted her membership in a rather distinguished secret society to which she and Tom belonged.” Daisy seems to represent the typical upper class female in the early 20th century. Interestingly enough, despite her good economical fortune and social status, she is extremely uneasy and makes awkwardly imposing remarks to others, in particular the narrator. As a part of this upper class, she has an ego that needs to be nourished quite frequently, and she thirsts for recognition of her social ranking. She throws herself out there, flirting frivolously and begging others to acknowledge her marital achievements and her economic status. This recognition fuels her to continue her charade despite her inner contempt.

Daisy also tries to appeal to everyone and please people with her comments. Her remarks are meant to produce approving gestures from others rather than convey anything that she actually feels. In addition, she constantly asks people if they want to hear what she is about to say, presumably so that she has confirmation of their interest. Once again, this confirmation feeds her conscience, making her feel important and recognized.

Her character appears to be a criticism of the time period. The early 1900’s, sometimes called the “Gilded Age,” was a time filled with ostentatious displays of wealth. However, the character of Daisy shows us the tension and reality underneath the grand parties and ballrooms. Fitzgerald is also showing us that economic gains are achieved at much emotional cost, for here is a woman with everything imaginable who is tainted with cynicism and sorrow.

Finally, Daisy believes that she and Tom are part of a special secret society. This might explain why she still remains powerless in her marriage. It seems as though she is still in love with him, as she was when her marriage began. This becomes evident because despite her husband having an affair right in front of her eyes, she has done little to resolve what makes her uncomfortable. True love for Tom seems to be a viable reason, and perhaps she feels that speaking her mind would only anger him and thus hurt her even more. As the book progresses, we will definitely have to pay attention to how her role in her marriage evolves, and considering her inner turmoil, this change seems inevitable.
Chapter 1 By: Ciara Rafferty “You see I think everything’s terrible anyhow,” she went on in a convinced way. “Everybody thinks so—the most advanced people. And I know. I’vebeen everywhere and seen everything and done everything.” Her eyes flashed around her in a defiant way, rather like Tom’s, and she laughed with thrilling scorn. “Sophisticated—God I’m sophisticated!” (21).
This passage perfectly depicts the unhappiness that Daisy experiences from day to day. The life that she had made for herself is strictly to show. Life has misled her to work towards wealth and keep a high spot in society. But, instead of bringing happiness, this trail has led her to complete discontent and confusion.

When Daisy talks in this passage, it seems to be a desperate call. Daisy is trying to convince herself that she is sophisticated. She mentions the places that she has been and is trying to feed Nick information that would lead him to think that she is advanced. Nick believes she is at this moment, and some other people may, but she knows that it is not true. It is as if she is screaming about her sophistication at the end. She is afraid that Nick will figure her out, just like she is afraid the rest of society will judge her. Also, Fitzgerald mentions Tom in this passage, which reflects the unhappiness of other high-society members other than Daisy. Tom fears the judgment of others just as much and puts on a face for society to view. Daisy and Tom’s eyes are described as defiant. It is as if their eyes are rebelling against themselves, but eyes cannot lie and Nick sees that.

This passage also shows Daisy’s feelings as a woman. Daisy has to show society a pathetic side to her. Previous to this passage, she is telling Nick about having a baby girl. Daisy hopes that her baby will be “a beautiful little fool,” because that is the “best thing a girl can be in this world.” This clearly upsets Daisy but she tries to make it seem like it doesn’t and that things are the way they are for a reason. Society has molded Daisy into someone who has accepted her position as a woman. Although she has many choices to make, she maintains her fickle attitude and acts just as a woman was supposed to.

By: Jeremy Scher

Page 22: “The instant here voice broke off, ceasing to compel my attention, my belief, I felt the basic insincerity of what she had said. It made me uneasy, as though the whole evening had been a trick of some sort to exact a contributory emotion from me. I waited, and sure enough, in a moment she looked at me with an absolute smirk on her lovely face as if she had asserted her membership in a rather distinguished secret society to which she and Tom belonged.” Daisy seems to represent the typical upper class female in the early 20th century. Interestingly enough, despite her good economical fortune and social status, she is extremely uneasy and makes awkwardly imposing remarks to others, in particular the narrator. As a part of this upper class, she has an ego that needs to be nourished quite frequently, and she thirsts for recognition of her social ranking. She throws herself out there, flirting frivolously and begging others to acknowledge her marital achievements and her economic status. This recognition fuels her to continue her charade despite her inner contempt.

Daisy also tries to appeal to everyone and please people with her comments. Her remarks are meant to produce approving gestures from others rather than convey anything that she actually feels. In addition, she constantly asks people if they want to hear what she is about to say, presumably so that she has confirmation of their interest. Once again, this confirmation feeds her conscience, making her feel important and recognized.

Her character appears to be a criticism of the time period. The early 1900’s, sometimes called the “Gilded Age,” was a time filled with ostentatious displays of wealth. However, the character of Daisy shows us the tension and reality underneath the grand parties and ballrooms. Fitzgerald is also showing us that economic gains are achieved at much emotional cost, for here is a woman with everything imaginable who is tainted with cynicism and sorrow.

Finally, Daisy believes that she and Tom are part of a special secret society. This might explain why she still remains powerless in her marriage. It seems as though she is still in love with him, as she was when her marriage began. This becomes evident because despite her husband having an affair right in front of her eyes, she has done little to resolve what makes her uncomfortable. True love for Tom seems to be a viable reason, and perhaps she feels that speaking her mind would only anger him and thus hurt her even more. As the book progresses, we will definitely have to pay attention to how her role in her marriage evolves, and considering her inner turmoil, this change seems inevitable. Chapter 1 By: Ciara Rafferty “You see I think everything’s terrible anyhow,” she went on in a convinced way. “Everybody thinks so—the most advanced people. And I know. I’vebeen everywhere and seen everything and done everything.” Her eyes flashed around her in a defiant way, rather like Tom’s, and she laughed with thrilling scorn. “Sophisticated—God I’m sophisticated!” (21).
This passage perfectly depicts the unhappiness that Daisy experiences from day to day. The life that she had made for herself is strictly to show. Life has misled her to work towards wealth and keep a high spot in society. But, instead of bringing happiness, this trail has led her to complete discontent and confusion.

When Daisy talks in this passage, it seems to be a desperate call. Daisy is trying to convince herself that she is sophisticated. She mentions the places that she has been and is trying to feed Nick information that would lead him to think that she is advanced. Nick believes she is at this moment, and some other people may, but she knows that it is not true. It is as if she is screaming about her sophistication at the end. She is afraid that Nick will figure her out, just like she is afraid the rest of society will judge her. Also, Fitzgerald mentions Tom in this passage, which reflects the unhappiness of other high-society members other than Daisy. Tom fears the judgment of others just as much and puts on a face for society to view. Daisy and Tom’s eyes are described as defiant. It is as if their eyes are rebelling against themselves, but eyes cannot lie and Nick sees that.

This passage also shows Daisy’s feelings as a woman. Daisy has to show society a pathetic side to her. Previous to this passage, she is telling Nick about having a baby girl. Daisy hopes that her baby will be “a beautiful little fool,” because that is the “best thing a girl can be in this world.” This clearly upsets Daisy but she tries to make it seem like it doesn’t and that things are the way they are for a reason. Society has molded Daisy into someone who has accepted her position as a woman. Although she has many choices to make, she maintains her fickle attitude and acts just as a woman was supposed to.

By: Jeremy Scher

Page 22: “The instant here voice broke off, ceasing to compel my attention, my belief, I felt the basic insincerity of what she had said. It made me uneasy, as though the whole evening had been a trick of some sort to exact a contributory emotion from me. I waited, and sure enough, in a moment she looked at me with an absolute smirk on her lovely face as if she had asserted her membership in a rather distinguished secret society to which she and Tom belonged.” Daisy seems to represent the typical upper class female in the early 20th century. Interestingly enough, despite her good economical fortune and social status, she is extremely uneasy and makes awkwardly imposing remarks to others, in particular the narrator. As a part of this upper class, she has an ego that needs to be nourished quite frequently, and she thirsts for recognition of her social ranking. She throws herself out there, flirting frivolously and begging others to acknowledge her marital achievements and her economic status. This recognition fuels her to continue her charade despite her inner contempt.

Daisy also tries to appeal to everyone and please people with her comments. Her remarks are meant to produce approving gestures from others rather than convey anything that she actually feels. In addition, she constantly asks people if they want to hear what she is about to say, presumably so that she has confirmation of their interest. Once again, this confirmation feeds her conscience, making her feel important and recognized.

Her character appears to be a criticism of the time period. The early 1900’s, sometimes called the “Gilded Age,” was a time filled with ostentatious displays of wealth. However, the character of Daisy shows us the tension and reality underneath the grand parties and ballrooms. Fitzgerald is also showing us that economic gains are achieved at much emotional cost, for here is a woman with everything imaginable who is tainted with cynicism and sorrow.

Finally, Daisy believes that she and Tom are part of a special secret society. This might explain why she still remains powerless in her marriage. It seems as though she is still in love with him, as she was when her marriage began. This becomes evident because despite her husband having an affair right in front of her eyes, she has done little to resolve what makes her uncomfortable. True love for Tom seems to be a viable reason, and perhaps she feels that speaking her mind would only anger him and thus hurt her even more. As the book progresses, we will definitely have to pay attention to how her role in her marriage evolves, and considering her inner turmoil, this change seems inevitable. Chapter 2

By: Jeremy Scher

“Mrs. Wilson had changed her costume some time before and was now attired in an elaborate afternoon dress of cream colored chiffon which gave out a continual rustle as she swept about the room. With the influence of the dress her personality had also undergone a change. The intense vitality that had been so remarkable in the garage was converted into impressive hauteur. Her laughter, her gestures, her assertions became more violently affected moment by moment and as she expanded the room grew smaller around her until she seemed to be revolving on a noisy, creaking pivot through the smoky air” (35).

This passage gives us a glimpse into the lives of the poor. Myrtle reflects the eagerness of women to be associated with money and wealth. In this particular instance, the dress is a sign of wealth for Myrtle and gives her the confidence to act as if she is part of the upper class. Nick also points out that she “changed her costume.” While a costume can simply mean an outfit, it also is defined as a set of clothes worn by an actor or performer. Myrtle uses the dress to appear and act as if she is important and wealthy, while underneath she is simply the wife of a gas station owner. In reality she is poor, subservient, and naïve, but the transformation of the dress changes her to rich, controlling, and arrogantly informed.

In addition, Nick portrays to us the effects of her gestures upon others. She is literally imposing herself, using motion as a method of assertion. This also touches upon the theme of self-absorption. Myrtle has become so absorbed in herself that everything else appears smaller and insignificant. In fact, she tries to occupy the entire room between her size and aggressive movements to make herself feel more important. As a poor woman just begging to be swept away by a rich man, she needs to be the center of attention and craves acknowledgment by those who are sophisticated. The hand motions and “noisy, creaking pivot” also represent her class. She is making a lot of noise and foisting herself upon others because she wants to feel important. The creaking is her essentially screeching for attention. She is begging to be pulled into the upper class by Tom, and we will have to see whether her seemingly helpless efforts actually accomplish anything.

Chapter 3

By: Hannah LeClair

“Jordan Baker instinctively avoided clever shrewd men and now I saw that this was because she felt safer on a plane where any divergence from a code would be thought impossible. She was incurably dishonest. She wasn’t able to endure being at a disadvantage, and given this unwillingness I suppose she had begun dealing in subterfuges when she was very young in order to keep that cool insolent smile turned to the world and yet satisfy the demands of her hard jaunty body. “It made no difference to me. Dishonesty in a woman is a thing you never blame deeply—I was casually sorry, and then I forgot.”

At the beginning of The Great Gatsby, Nick Carraway states, “I am inclined to reserve all judgments.” On page 63, when Nick discovers that what Jordan Baker hides behind her affected hauteur is “incurable dishonesty,” it seems to be a legitimate opportunity for him to pass judgment of her character. After all, he admits that he is falling in love with her. The discovery that someone you like is a liar is never pleasant, and I expected Nick to be perturbed by it. Instead, Nick presents Jordan’s incurable dishonesty as plain fact. He does not seem particularly disappointed or surprised, but says, “It made no difference to me.”

By chapter five, Nick has established himself as a reliable narrator. We trust his insight into the characters of the people around him, not because of the accuracy of his judgments, but because of the depth of his perceptions and the skill with which he depicts them for us. Nick’s willingness to explore personalities gradually, with interest rather than prejudice, is what makes gives him such a unique narrative voice and perspective.

Nick says that he is not actually in love with Jordan Baker, but felt “a sort of tender curiosity” (62). It is difficult to understand Nick’s attraction to Jordan, who, by his own descriptions, seems like an unpleasant person. She is perpetually bored, her face is wan, and she sports an “insolent smile.” However, they are drawn together at Gatsby’s party. (“ ‘Let’s get out,’ whispered Jordan, after a somehow wasteful and inappropriate half hour. ‘This is much too polite for me’”) (49). Somehow, they both seem to be outsiders, who don’t belong in “polite” East Egg society. Nick wants to find out what is behind Jordan’s “cool insolent smile” and “bored haughty face.”

When he discovers her dishonesty, it doesn’t bother him—in fact, it almost pleases him because he feels that he has a special insight into her character that perhaps no one else has. He understands that Jordan “instinctively avoided clever shrewd men,” and why she feels safer on a plane “where any divergence from a code would be thought impossible”—except by her. Interestingly, it seems that Nick does not consider himself one of the “clever shrewd men” that Jordan takes so much care to avoid.

During the summer when Nick’s story takes place, it would be safe to say that his “tender curiosity” is not limited to Jordan, but extends to humanity as a whole. That curiosity is what compels Nick to discover what people hide behind masks of aggressiveness, haughtiness, opulence or charm—it is what interests him in the personalities of Gatsby, Daisy, and Tom as well. By the end of the summer, as Nick says in the first chapter of the book, “I wanted no more riotous excursions with privileged glimpses into the human heart” (7).

Nick’s optimism is betrayed by the discovery Tom and Daisy’s callous carelessness and superficiality by the end of the book. That discovery—that it is possible to be deceived even when one reserves judgment and approaches people’s characters with an open mind, that sometimes there is nothing better beneath the affectations people project—is described as a “foul dust” which, Nick says, “temporarily closed out my interest in the abortive sorrows and short-winded elations of men”(8).

Chapter 7 Hannah LeClair

“ ‘She’s got an indiscreet voice,’ I remarked. ‘It’s full of—’
I hesitated.
‘Her voice is full of money,’ he said suddenly (127).” Daisy’s voice, full of promise and music like a “singing compulsion,” recurs throughout The Great Gatsby like an elusive refrain. At this moment in chapter 7, however, Gatsby shares a revelation that Fitzgerald uses to underscore the “basic insincerity” in Daisy’s words and actions. Daisy is not a strong woman—rather she is weak and vacillating, has always been caught between men with stronger wills than hers. In a sense, her belief that she is unable to act upon her own initiative is accurate—she is constrained by the expectations of society. But she does not even attempt to challenge those expectations and boundaries. She does not wait for her great love, Gatsby. The decision to forsake her family, status and connections is something she can’t face, and instead, she wants “her life shaped now, immediately…the decision must be made by some force—of love, of money, of unquestionable practicality…close at hand” (159).

Those three concerns—love, money, and above all, unquestionable practicality—seem to be a credo for the Buchanans and their ilk, the kind of people Nick finally denounces as a “rotten crowd” (162). Daisy submits to existence in a rather loveless marriage with an unfaithful husband, failing to challenge Tom for his misconduct towards her. Her situation is far from ideal—that becomes blindingly apparent to her when Gatsby reappears, offering the romantic possibility of escape. But Gatsby trades in dreams, and Daisy is content with just the possibility of escape. Indeed, the scenes in Gatsby’s house have an air of dreamlike unreality, and when confronted with the reality and consequences of her actions, Daisy is frightened and hesitant. She turns toward Jordan and Nick in mute appeal, and it is clear that “she had never, all along, intended doing anything at all” (139).

Daisy, again, does nothing after running over Myrtle Wilson. Gatsby describes the incident: “Well, first Daisy turned away from the woman toward the other car, and then she lost her nerve and turned back. The second my hand reached the wheel I felt the shock…” (151). For Daisy, facing down reality—making choices—is as impossible as swerving into oncoming traffic to avoid killing a woman. Daisy “loses her nerve” and is unable to choose Gatsby’s fantastic, impractical love. She can not extricate herself that credo of selfishness—love, wealth, practicality. At the end of chapter 7, Tom and Daisy come to a kind of reconciliation. They are not happy—perhaps they never will be—“and yet they weren’t unhappy either. There was an unmistakable air of natural intimacy about the picture and anybody would have said that they were conspiring together” (153).

Gatsby’s incandescent love for Daisy is entirely sincere, no matter what it’s motivation truly is. But it is also fundamentally impractical, and thus at odds with Daisy’s own desires and it trespasses, in so many ways, the boundaries of a society that values “love,” money, and practicality above all else. Daisy is, above all, a selfish woman, but this doesn’t make her any worse—or even any different—from the other deeply flawed characters in this novel.

Ben Edlin

“I don’t think there’s much gas,” he objected.
“Plenty of gas,” said Tom boisterously. He looked at the gauge. “And if it runs out I can stop at a drug-store. You can buy anything at a drug-store nowadays.”
A pause followed this apparently pointless remark. Daisy looked at Tom frowning, and an indefinable expression, at once definitely unfamiliar and vaguely recognizable, as if I had only heard it described in words, passed over Gatsby’s face.
“Come on, Daisy,” said Tom, pressing her with his hand toward Gatsby’s car. “I’ll take you in this circus wagon.”
He opened the door, but she moved out from the circle of his arm.
“You take Nick and Jordan. We’ll follow you in the coupe.”
She walked close to Gatsby, touching his coat with her hand. Jordan and Tom and I got into the front seat of Gatsby’s car, Tom pushed the unfamiliar gears tentatively, and we shot off into the oppressive heat, leaving them out of sight behind.
“Did you see that?” demanded Tom (127-8) This passage is interesting for the same reason that it is shocking. The Great Gatsby is obviously known as a social critique on wealth and on the material life, however, it is also a critique on love, and how things like money and social status affect it. Daisy first fell for Gatsby under the impression that he was a man of extraordinary wealth, and then, when he left, she married Tom because he was a respected social figure and had tons of money. She only fell for people who, in her opinion, could support her lifestyle and keep her comfortable. However, with money and luxury as her primary factors, she never truly LOVED either of them. And her constant fluctuation between Tom and Gatsby proves it. When Tom makes one stupid remark, she falls back in love with Gatsby, and chooses to ride with him. And then, when Tom wins the argument with Gatsby later in the novel, she falls back in love with Tom for good. This passage is a perfect example of the shallowness of “high society” relationships, and asserts Fitzgerald’s idea that love, motivated by money, isn’t real love at all.

I also realized for the first time in re-reading this passage something very interesting. In the whole scheme of the novel, I think it is safe to say that Nick is the best overall person in the story. He doesn’t judge, he works hard, and he helps out his friends when they ask for it. However, Daisy doesn’t even give him the time of day. Why? Certainly not because of who he is, because if she would try to get to know him I’m sure she would find him to be a better man than either Tom or Gatsby. It is because of the simple fact that he is poor kid from the Midwest, with more character to his name than coin.

Chapter 8 EunicePak “Through this twilight universe Daisy began to move again with the season; suddenly she was again keeping half a dozen dates a day with half a dozen men, and drowsing asleep at dawn with the beds and chiffon of an evening dress tangled among dying orchids on the floor beside her bed. And all the time something within her was crying for a decision. She wanted her life shaped now, immediately – and the decision must be made by some force – of love, of money, of unquestionable practicality – that was close at hand. The force took shape in the middle of spring with the arrival of Tom Buchanan. There was a wholesome bulkiness about his person and position, and Daisy was flattered. Doubtless there was a certain struggle and a certain relief. The letter reached Gatsby while he was still at Oxford.” (158-159) While the question of whether or not Gatsby ever loved Daisy continues to perplex many, this passage gives us some insight on how Daisy might have felt towards the two important men in her life – Tom and Gatsby.
The first paragraph first dives in to the reasons of why Daisy strayed from the idea of a future with Gatsby, and it largely has to do with her indecisive and impulsive nature. Unlike Gatsby, who had ambitions, goals, and dreams to work for, Daisy needed something to happen to her, for her life to be decided “by some force,” and it had to be decided soon. Daisy is a very dependent person – dependent on money, on praise and approval of other people, and on men who gave her value by desiring her. In fact, she reminds me of, like her name suggests, a delicate flower, whose fate is dependent on the environment surrounding her, and who is in need of tender care and protection.
And so, Daisy needed to “move again with the season”; she could not keep relying on Gatsby because her future with him was too uncertain, and at the moment of his absence, she was not sure if he’d come back to protect her. She felt vulnerable without Gatsby there to flatter her, and she felt unsafe without having a beau who had money and an “unquestionable practicality…close at hand.” This is where Tom Buchanan steps in; his “wholesome bulkiness” attracts Daisy because he appears to be stable, a person capable to secure her a good future.
Like Gatsby, Daisy had possible alternative motives for staying with either Tom or Gatsby aside from love; she needed them to feel secure about herself. This should bring light to a new question – not only is Gatsby’s love for Daisy under question, but so is Daisy’s. Did Daisy love Gatsby, or did she simply like the idea of him, similar to how it was proposed that Gatsby simply loved the idea of what Daisy embodied, being money? Is it possible that Daisy fell in love with not Gatsby himself, but rather his confidence in his ambitions and his made-up background as Jay Gatsby? Did she “love” him because she felt safe with him? And did she fall in “love” with him again because Tom’s neglect made her feel even more desirous of attention – attention which Gatsby offered so graciously?
To answer these questions, I say that Daisy never loved either men and simply used them to raise her own self-esteem. Whether or not that trait of hers is considered despicable is, of course, left up to the reader, but I believe that because Fitzgerald takes too much care to justify her actions, and sometimes to even beautify them, that his intention was never for his readers to hate her, but to actually understand her. Yes, Daisy is a rather ignorant character in that she doesn’t consider the consequences of her actions, in that she toys with the hearts of two men with only herself in mind, but perhaps this all points to her upbringing – which is possibly hinted at on page 123, when Daisy first introduces her daughter:
“I got dressed before luncheon,” said the child, turning eagerly to Daisy.
“That’s because your mother wanted to show you off.” Her face bent into the single wrinkle of the small white neck. “You dream, you. You absolute dream.”
Her treatment of the child, as if she were a little doll, made to dress up and impress others, might as well reflected how Daisy was treated at a young age as well. Perhaps such treatment, along with the “half a dozen” men doting on her, resulted in an overdose of attention, and made her grow desirous of love and of money.
And so, when Gatsby came along with his supposedly grandiose background, when Tom’s “wholesome bulkiness” presented itself before her eyes, Daisy could not help but be attracted to what they had to offer. She needed someone by her side to let her know how lovely a person she was, to perhaps, confirm that she was of some value, that she was loved. Chapter 5 By: Ben Edlin

"The exhilarating ripple of her voice was a wild tonic in the rain. I had to follow the sound of it for a moment, up and down, with my ear alone, before any words came through. A damp streak of hair lay like a dash of blue paint across her cheek, and her hand was wet with glistening drops as I took it to help her from the car." (90)

I find it very interesting how many times Fitzgerald describes the way Daisy looks at certain times. When he introduces other characters or references them, he may give a brief description, but the main point is their words, or what they do. However, when Fitzgerald mentions Daisy, he takes sentences upon sentences to describe her. For this passage, he spent an entire paragraph describing the way her voice sounded, and how her hair fell on her face. Why does he do this? Why does so much of his story revolve around how she looks, or sounds? I think that Fitzgerald does this as a technique to allow the reader to fall into the same trap that the male characters of the story are currently in. They don’t hear her words, or see her actions; they merely hear the pretty sound of her voice, or the gracefulness and beauty of her actions. There isn’t a single person in the novel that listens to Daisy critically, or even objectively. And, when I read this passage, I couldn’t help but focus more on her hand, glistening with raindrops, than the vain, self-centered comment she makes directly following the passage, “Are you in love with me? Or why did I have to come alone (90).” Fitzgerald’s skillful writing style and descriptions make Daisy jump off of the page, and have the exact same, almost enchanting effect on the reader that she has on Gatsby and Nick. When Fitzgerald describes Daisy in this way, I almost feel like the men in Odysseus’s crew in Homer’s The Odyssey, when they are completely taken in by the sirens. They know not that their lives are in danger, and they don’t even care; all they see are pretty faces, and all they hear are beautiful voices.