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

emotional mysterious reflective 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

4.5

I first read this book when I was 14. I didn't get it. Like no shot. I was just trying to look smart by reading classic novels. I think I get it now though. Fitzgerald writes as impressionists paint. His conjured images are fuzzy, flowing, and full of feelings. Everything is enveloped with a faded glow of melancholy that is wholly immersive and dreamlike. This writing style fits the hedonistic party lifestyle that the novel deals with perfectly while supporting the reflective tone as well. I love the novel's conclusion about how money causes people to be childishly apathetic and put their blinders up to the problems that they cause with their recklessness. If you read this book in class and hated it, I encourage you to give it a second look with fresh, more mature eyes. Maybe you'll still hate it idk.
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