Karisha Jade

The Great Gatsby (and I really have read this over and over again) here’s why:

The Great Gatsby is a timeless classic that has continued to captivate readers for generations. Although it was published nearly a century ago, the novel’s themes are still relevant today, particularly in the context of modern relationships.

One of the most significant themes in The Great Gatsby is the idea that love can be unobtainable. The novel’s protagonist, Jay Gatsby, spends years pursuing his love for Daisy Buchanan, but despite his wealth and lavish lifestyle, he is unable to win her heart. Gatsby’s story serves as a reminder that sometimes, no matter how much we want something or someone, it may simply be out of reach. We also come to the understanding that Gatsby in his effort to showcase his love for Daisy, would go into increased debt and put on a facade to portray himself as “old money”. Daisy (a selfish villain in my opinion) wanted the love from one man and the money/status from the other. I feel like this resonates with young people today with having multiple partners (“side chicks”if you will) and succumbing to toxic relationships for a gain in status. Many young people are influenced by celebrities relationships, the toxicity that rap/grime/drill speak of and the unrealistic lives through Instagram.

Another important theme in the novel is greed. Gatsby’s greed leads him to have affairs with other women and to manipulate those around him using his wealth and influence. Whereas Tom’s character serves as a warning that too much focus on material possessions and power can be dangerous and can ultimately lead to negative consequences. And through this book, you start to understand that Gatsby’s one sided (obsessive) love and monetary greed was actually his downfall. And some might also say his “lavish” life was just a cry for help for his loneliness, isolation and lack of progression.

Much like what we see today, Great Gatsby applies to future generations. If not for the toxic relationships, then at least the fake lives that people lead. We see that some individuals will happily go out with people they don’t really like to post online and make themselves come across as less lonely. We see young people do illegal activities for quickly earned wealth. We see the bourgeoisie continue to make more money. We see the chain of vengeful romance cycle after the first heartbreak.

I highly recommend The Great Gatsby if you haven’t already given it a go!