Daisy's Voice in The Great Gatsby: a Symbol of Wealth, Influence, and Elusiveness

In F. Scott Fitzgerald's renowned novel, The Great Gatsby, Daisy Buchanan's voice is portrayed as a significant element that captures the attention of the reader. Fitzgerald strategically focuses on Daisy's voice at various points throughout the text, shedding light on her character and the themes of wealth, influence, and elusiveness. This essay aims to explore why Fitzgerald emphasizes Daisy's voice and its implications in the novel, arguing that it serves as a symbol of wealth, influence, and the enigmatic nature of the American Dream.

The Enigmatic Power of Daisy's Voice

Daisy's voice, often described as "full of money," holds a mesmerizing quality that captivates those around her, including Jay Gatsby. Fitzgerald's emphasis on Daisy's voice highlights the allure and power of wealth, as her voice is seen as a reflection of her luxurious lifestyle and social status. According to literary critic Ruth Prigozy, the repetition of Daisy's voice throughout the novel suggests that money and social standing have a profound influence on people's perception of others. Gatsby, for instance, is enchanted by Daisy's voice and sees it as a symbol of his own aspirations and the possibilities of the American Dream.

Furthermore, Daisy's voice symbolizes her influence over others, particularly men. Fitzgerald portrays her as a femme fatale who manipulates those who are drawn to her charm. In a society where women had limited agency, Daisy uses her voice to exert control and maintain her social position. This can be seen in her relationship with Tom Buchanan, whom she married for his wealth and status. Daisy's voice, therefore, becomes a tool for manipulation and self-preservation, reflecting the power dynamics prevalent in the 1920s.

Daisy's Voice as an Elusive Symbol

Fitzgerald's focus on Daisy's voice also underscores her elusiveness as a character. Throughout the novel, Daisy remains enigmatic, and her voice serves as a metaphor for her elusive nature. Just as Gatsby tries to grasp onto his dream of winning Daisy's heart, her voice seems just out of reach. Fitzgerald uses this symbolism to comment on the transient and unattainable nature of the American Dream itself. Despite Gatsby's efforts to recreate their past love, Daisy's voice becomes a constant reminder of the barriers that separate them, emphasizing the impossibility of recapturing the past.

Moreover, the recurring mention of Daisy's voice highlights the superficiality of the society in which she lives. The 1920s were characterized by materialism and the pursuit of pleasure, and Daisy's voice becomes another object of desire, much like her physical appearance or her possessions. Fitzgerald critiques the shallow values of the Jazz Age, suggesting that the obsession with wealth and superficial attributes ultimately leads to disappointment and disillusionment.

Daisy's Voice: A Reflection of Society and Femininity

Fitzgerald's focus on Daisy's voice also reflects the societal expectations placed on women during the 1920s. Daisy's voice is often described as soft and musical, conforming to traditional notions of femininity. This portrayal reinforces the idea that women were expected to be delicate and passive, with their voices serving as tools of seduction rather than instruments of power. Daisy's voice, therefore, becomes a commentary on the limited roles available to women in a patriarchal society, where their worth is often measured by their attractiveness and ability to attract wealthy suitors.

In conclusion, F. Scott Fitzgerald's emphasis on Daisy's voice in The Great Gatsby serves multiple purposes. It symbolizes wealth, influence, and the elusiveness of the American Dream. Additionally, Daisy's voice reflects the superficiality and societal expectations placed on women during the 1920s. By exploring Daisy's voice, Fitzgerald offers a critique of the materialistic values of the Jazz Age and the limited agency afforded to women. Ultimately, the recurring mention of Daisy's voice adds depth to her character and contributes to the novel's exploration of wealth, power, and the illusory nature of the American Dream.

Bibliography:

Prigozy, Ruth. "The Great Gatsby and the Fall of the American Dream." The Cambridge Companion to F. Scott Fitzgerald, edited by Ruth Prigozy, Cambridge University Press, 2002, pp. 59-76.