Chapter 5 Wisdom

Until chapter 5, as noted in my previous response, Gatsby seems always to be cool, calm and collected. Of all the characters we have met thus far (except possibly Nick), he has seemed to feel the least pressure to be a certain way, or to put on a certain affect. This is not to say that he does not effect an affect (Owl Eyes notes the books are unread and Gatsby is overbearing at times), but simply that he has always seemed comfortable and even in control at all times. In chapter 5, however, Gatsby is very awkward and uncomfortable. I believe the change is that he no longer has absolute power in his relationships. Gatsby is used to people who are either in debt to him or want to impress him. (It is interesting to note that this is a very Godfather-esque quality). In chapter 4, however, he indirectly asks Nick for a favor. This is why in chapter 5, he is so uncomfortable around Nick. He tries to gain the upper hand once more by offering to take Nick into New York, or to go swimming but Nick refuses. Nick even refuses to work for Gatsby: a job that would have forever given Gatsby the upper hand in their relationship. Similarly, Gatsby is not so much uncomfortable around Daisy because he feels awkward about having kept his feelings for her for so long, as he is uncomfortable because those feelings, which may or may not be requited, give her power in the relationship. He wants her affection, yet she may not care for his. This is why he becomes so much more confident when Nick tells him that Daisy is embarrassed; Gatsby knows that she wants him (or, moreover, his wealth) and thus is in the comfortable seat of power. IN CONCLUSION, Gatsby actively maintains his calm and superior demeanor by keeping his acquaintances in a lower social position than him by doing them favors, throwing popular parties, etc..