How does F Scott Fitzgerald tell the story in Chapter 6 of The Great Gatsby?
In chapter 6 of the novel, F Scott Fitzgerald tells the story in a variety of ways, notably through his use of the characterisation of Gatsby, the setting of the party and writing from Nick’ perspective. There is also more evidence of the themes in Gatsby being displayed in this chapter.
Gatsby characterised much more strongly in this chapter. As we learn the influence Dan Cody had over the young Gatsby, it becomes more obvious that this is where Gatsby learned to respect and covert wealth similar to Mr Cody’s. Fitzgerald writes “To young Gatz, resting on his oars and looking up at the railed deck, that yacht represented all the beauty and glamour in the world.” This evocative image, of a teenage boy gazing up the evidence of extreme wealth, Cody’s enormous yacht, and believing it to be the epitome of all that is enviable, helps define the materialistic nature of Gatsby. Gatsby’s materialism is a key aspect of the novel, as it is a contributing factor to his death, as his car was unique and therefore easily recognisable by Wilson, whom takes it upon himself to avenge Myrtle. Thus, Gatsby’s materialism from a young age helps exemplify his character. Furthermore, Gatsby is characterised by what he says, as for his short pieces of dialogue, the perspective changes. Gatsby is particularly characterised when Nick suggests that one “can’t repeat the past” and Gatsby responds with an emphatic “Why of course you can!” Gatsby’s delusionary nature allows him to truly believe he can repeat the past and win back what he lost with Daisy. This self-delusion is a key aspect of Gatsby’s nature, and it helps set the actions in the next chapter into motion as Gatsby has convinced himself that Daisy will admit that “I never loved you” to Tom.
Themes are also massively important in the chapter, particularly the recurring theme of the colour green and the underlying class issue. Primarily, the colour...