Chapter 5 Reader Response

I think that in Chapter 5 (in comparison to the previous chapters), Gatsby reveals the most about himself. In the beginning of this chapter, Gatsby seems to be tense about reuniting with Daisy and this is apparent through his small talk with Nick. In the previous chapters, the reader is only able to see glimpses of Gatsby, who is portrayed as a mysterious, wealthy man. but through his conversation with Nick, Gatsby hints at his more manipulative personality that has been relatively hidden before. At first, Gatsby appears to be thankful at the favor Nick does for him. But, when Gatsby offers to cut Nick's lawn, it shows Gatsby's embarassment towards Nick's less extravagent home. Then, Gatsby offers Nick a chance to be involved in his "little business" that he does on the side. When Nick declines this offer, Gatsby is aware of Wolfsheim's sketchy business but decides not to say anything more about it.

Not only does this chapter reveal a lot about Gatsby, it also reveals what kind of a woman Daisy is. When Gatsby, Daisy, and Nick are at Gatsby's mansion, Gatsby brings both of them into his bedroom, sifting through his clothes. Gatsby declares that he has "a man in England who buys [him] clothes" (92). Gatsby ultimately tries to prove his wealth to impress Daisy. Daisy responds to his wealth by sobbing over his "beautiful shirts", suggesting her attachment to material things. Through Daisy's reaction, the reader can imply that Daisy is just as shallow as the other women in Gatsby. And, by the end of this chapter, Daisy falls in love with Gatsby (again / never was out of love) and Nick acknowledges their happiness together. This makes me wonder whether or not Daisy is actually in love with Gatsby or just in love with the fact that Gatsby has money.

I want to make one more point before I end this blog. Near the end of Ch. 5, Gatsby says, "If it wasn't for the must we could see your home across the bay. You always have a green light that burns all night at the end of your dock" (92). This reminds me of the valley of asked and the eyes of Doctor T.J. Eckleburg. In the valley of ashes, there is smoke that screens The Eyes from seeing anything. I think that this might represent Gatsby's inability to see Daisy's secret ambitions or her true personality. I also think that this not only suggests Gatsby and Daisy's emotional difference, it also suggests their physical separation (West Egg vs. East Egg).