How Do The Clothes Symbolize in The Great Gatsby?

Throughout F. Scott Fitzgerald's renowned novel, The Great Gatsby, clothing plays a significant role in conveying the characters' social status, identity, and aspirations. The protagonist, Jay Gatsby, is particularly known for his extravagant and flamboyant wardrobe, which holds deeper symbolic meanings. This essay explores the symbolism of Gatsby's shirts and their implications in the story. By analyzing the various interpretations of these clothing items, we can gain a deeper understanding of the characters and themes in the novel.

Gatsby's Shirts as Symbols of Wealth and Status

One of the key symbols associated with Gatsby's shirts is their representation of wealth and social status. From the very first introduction of Gatsby, his shirts are described as "shirts of sheer linen and thick silk and fine flannel" (Fitzgerald, 98). These luxurious fabrics and the mention of their high-quality materials immediately evoke a sense of opulence and extravagance. By possessing such expensive clothing, Gatsby seeks to create an image of wealth and success, attempting to fit into the upper echelons of society.

Furthermore, Gatsby's shirts are not merely garments but a reflection of his desire to reinvent himself. As an individual who climbed the social ladder through illicit means, Gatsby uses his clothing as a way to mask his true identity. By wearing these expensive shirts, he hopes to pass as a member of the wealthy elite, concealing his humble origins. This disguise becomes crucial in Gatsby's pursuit of Daisy Buchanan, a woman from a wealthy background. The shirts symbolize his aspiration to be seen as her equal and to appeal to her desire for material wealth.

The Symbolic Transformation of the Shirts

While Gatsby's shirts initially represent his attempt to attain wealth and status, they undergo a symbolic transformation as the story progresses. In one particular scene, Gatsby opens his closet to reveal an array of meticulously organized shirts. Nick Carraway, the novel's narrator, describes them as "shirts of sheer linen and thick silk and fine flannel" in a rainbow of colors (Fitzgerald, 92). This vivid imagery suggests the diversity and vibrancy of Gatsby's aspirations and desires.

The shirts, which were once a symbol of Gatsby's longing for wealth, now embody his pursuit of love and happiness. The rainbow of colors represents the various facets of his dreams, from material desires to emotional fulfillment. Gatsby's transformation from a mere social climber to a man driven by love is reflected in this change of symbolism within the shirts.

The Elusiveness of Material Success

Despite their initial symbolism, Gatsby's shirts also serve as a reminder of the elusive nature of material success. While Gatsby possesses an abundance of expensive clothing, it ultimately fails to bring him the happiness and fulfillment he seeks. This is evident in his futile pursuit of Daisy, who remains emotionally distant and unattainable.

The shirts, therefore, act as a poignant symbol of Gatsby's unfulfilled desires and the hollowness of his materialistic pursuits. Despite his apparent wealth, he remains isolated and unfulfilled, unable to find true happiness. The shirts serve as a cautionary reminder of the emptiness that can accompany the pursuit of material wealth, emphasizing the novel's critique of the American Dream.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the symbolism of Gatsby's shirts in The Great Gatsby adds depth and richness to the narrative. They represent not only his wealth and social status but also his desire for reinvention and his pursuit of love and happiness. However, as the story progresses, these shirts undergo a symbolic transformation, reflecting the shifting priorities and aspirations of the characters. Ultimately, the shirts serve as a reminder of the elusiveness of material success and the emptiness it can bring. Fitzgerald masterfully uses clothing as a vehicle for exploring themes of wealth, identity, and the disillusionment of the American Dream. Through the analysis of these symbols, we gain a deeper understanding of the characters and the larger societal critiques within the novel.

Bibliography

Fitzgerald, F. Scott. The Great Gatsby. Scribner, 2004.