The Diamond as Big as The Ritz: a Summary of F. Scott Fitzgerald's Classic Tale

Introduction

F. Scott Fitzgerald’s short story "The Diamond as Big as the Ritz" is a fascinating blend of surrealism, satire, and commentary on wealth and privilege. Written in 1922, during the height of the Jazz Age, this tale encapsulates Fitzgerald’s critical perspective on the American Dream. At first glance, it might seem like a whimsical fairy tale about extraordinary wealth; however, upon closer examination, it reveals deeper themes regarding morality and the dark side of affluence. In this essay, I will provide an overview of the story while exploring its key themes and characters.

The Setting: A World Apart

The story begins with a striking image: a diamond that is literally as big as the Ritz-Carlton Hotel. This hyperbolic description sets the tone for an extravagant narrative that draws readers into a world where opulence knows no bounds. The setting is an isolated mansion owned by John T. Unger’s friend, Percy Washington, situated atop a mountain in Montana. This luxurious estate is unlike anything one could imagine—complete with incredible riches and stunning landscapes that seem to defy reality.

Fitzgerald uses this unique setting to highlight not only wealth but also isolation. The mansion is surrounded by guards and barriers designed to keep outsiders away from its treasures. This element of seclusion serves as a metaphor for how extreme wealth can lead to loneliness and detachment from society at large.

Main Characters: Wealth and Morality

The main character in this tale is John T. Unger, who comes from humble beginnings but finds himself captivated by Percy Washington's ostentatious lifestyle. Initially drawn in by his friend's lavishness, John soon discovers that there are hidden dangers lurking beneath the glittering surface of Percy’s world.

Percy Washington represents both the allure and corruption that accompany immense wealth. His family has built their fortune on their ability to safeguard their diamond mine—a secret so carefully guarded that it feels almost mythical. As we delve deeper into Percy’s life, we learn how his family's riches come with terrifying consequences; they maintain their lifestyle through ruthless means that result in dire fates for those who dare trespass onto their land.

Themes: The Dark Side of Wealth

One of the central themes in "The Diamond as Big as the Ritz" revolves around the moral implications of great wealth. While Fitzgerald showcases luxury in vivid detail—opulent rooms filled with treasures—the narrative steadily unveils how such riches lead to moral decay and ethical ambiguity.

The juxtaposition between John's initial fascination with Percy's world and his eventual disillusionment serves to emphasize this theme dramatically. As John becomes more entrenched in Percy's universe, he witnesses firsthand how extreme affluence fosters paranoia, fear, and cruelty rather than happiness or fulfillment.

This critique extends beyond individual characters; it reflects broader societal issues surrounding capitalism during Fitzgerald's time—the disparity between those who have everything (the ultra-wealthy) versus those who have nothing (the marginalized). The ultimate fate awaiting characters like Percy emphasizes Fitzgerald's belief that unchecked greed can lead not only to personal destruction but also societal collapse.

Symbolism: The Diamond Itself

The diamond itself acts as a powerful symbol throughout the story—a representation of both unattainable beauty and unrestrained greed. It shines brilliantly yet carries an ominous weight due to its association with violence and death within Percy’s family legacy.

This duality resonates deeply when considering what diamonds represent culturally—luxury often obtained at great human cost (e.g., conflict diamonds). In essence, while they may symbolize love or success externally, internally they can embody destruction if wielded irresponsibly or immorally.

Conclusion: A Cautionary Tale

"The Diamond as Big as the Ritz" serves not just as an entertaining narrative but also as a cautionary tale about excessiveness tied intricately into America’s fabric during Fitzgerald's era—and arguably even today! Through vivid imagery blended seamlessly with complex characterization infused with rich thematic elements related directly back towards modernity's challenges regarding inequality faced globally still today—we’re reminded how fragile our sense of security really is when rooted solely within material possessions!

References

• Fitzgerald, F.S., "The Diamond as Big as the Ritz," Scribner's Magazine (1921).
• Mizener, Arthur., "Scott Fitzgerald: His Life & Work." New York: Charles Scribner's Sons (1963).
• Tate, Allen., "Fitzgerald: The Man & His Work." New York: Charles Scribner's Sons (1946).
• Baker Jr., Carlos., "Ernest Hemingway: A Life Story." New York: Charles Scribner's Sons (1969).
• Bruccoli ,Matthew J., "Some Sort Of Epic Grandeur." New York : Charles Scribner's Sons (2004).