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A review by orionmerlin
The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald

challenging emotional reflective sad tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.75

Characters – 9/10
The characters in The Great Gatsby were deeply memorable and distinct. Jay Gatsby himself was a fascinating enigma—driven by relentless hope, yet tragically naive. Nick Carraway served as an excellent observer, capturing both the glamour and hollowness of the Jazz Age. Daisy Buchanan embodied both allure and carelessness, making her frustrating yet compelling. The secondary characters, particularly Tom Buchanan and Jordan Baker, added crucial depth to the story, revealing the era’s moral decay and the complexity of wealth and privilege. Each character felt well-rounded and multidimensional, and I could easily describe their personalities in a single sentence.
Atmosphere/Setting – 10/10
The setting was one of the novel’s greatest strengths. Fitzgerald painted the Roaring Twenties with dazzling vibrancy—the extravagant parties, the glittering lights of Gatsby’s mansion, and the eerie loneliness of the valley of ashes all created an intoxicating yet unsettling backdrop. I felt fully immersed in the world of old money, new money, and those left behind. The contrast between West Egg and East Egg sharpened the themes of class divide and moral decay, making the setting more than just a place—it was a living force within the novel.
Writing Style – 10/10
Fitzgerald’s prose was exquisite. Every sentence felt deliberate, lyrical, and full of meaning without ever feeling excessive. His ability to craft vivid imagery while maintaining an effortless flow made the novel a joy to read. The balance between dialogue and narration was perfect, and his word choices carried an emotional weight that lingered long after finishing the book. The way he weaved themes of longing, illusion, and disillusionment into the very fabric of the writing was masterful. Even if Fitzgerald had written in a completely different genre, I would still be drawn to his work purely for the beauty of his language.
Plot – 8/10
The plot was relatively simple, but its execution made it unforgettable. The story’s slow build toward Gatsby’s downfall was compelling, and the tragic inevitability of his fate gave it a haunting quality. However, because the novel was more about its themes and characters than major twists or high-stakes action, there were a few moments where the pacing felt slower. That said, the ending was immensely powerful and left a lasting impact. Everything felt meticulously crafted, and while there were no shocking twists, the story’s emotional weight made up for it.
Intrigue – 9/10
I was completely absorbed in the story from start to finish. Gatsby’s mysterious past, his relentless pursuit of Daisy, and the looming sense of inevitable tragedy kept me turning pages. The novel didn’t rely on constant action to maintain interest; instead, it built tension through its atmosphere, character dynamics, and symbolism. Even knowing the ultimate fate of Gatsby, I remained captivated by every conversation, every fleeting moment of hope, and every unraveling dream.
Logic/Relationships – 9/10
The relationships felt authentic and painfully real. Gatsby’s idealized love for Daisy was both romantic and tragic, highlighting the dangers of clinging to the past. Daisy’s shallow, self-preserving nature was frustrating, yet entirely believable given her privileged background. Tom’s brute arrogance and possessiveness were infuriating but made complete sense within the world Fitzgerald created. Every character acted in accordance with their personalities and societal roles, reinforcing the novel’s themes rather than feeling like forced plot devices. The world itself—the distinction between old and new money, the corruption beneath the glamour—was consistent and fully realized.
Enjoyment – 10/10
I absolutely loved The Great Gatsby. The novel was atmospheric, beautifully written, and emotionally profound. It was one of those books that left me with a sense of melancholy long after I turned the last page. Fitzgerald captured the illusion of the American Dream with devastating precision, making it as relevant today as it was in the 1920s. I would recommend this book without hesitation, both for its literary brilliance and for the sheer emotional experience it provides. 
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