The Significance of Nick's Account in The Great Gatsby

One of the critical themes discussed in the novel is social stratification and the influence of money. The central character of the novel, Jay Gatsby, is seen as a self-made millionaire through illegal activities and his quest towards winning back his lost love, Daisy Buchanan. However, the novel is narrated by Nick Carraway, who is portrayed to be an outsider in the novel. This essay, therefore, explores the significance of Nick's account of the events in the Great Gatsby.

The Great Gatsby's Unique Narrative Structure

The Great Gatsby is unique in narrative structure as it is one of the rare novels written in the first-person point of view. Nick Carraway is not only a character in the novel but also serves as the narrator of the story. Typically, a narrator provides insight and commentary on the events or characters presented in a story, and Nick is no different. As an outsider, Nick's perspective is invaluable in conveying the events in the novel. It is through Nick's account that the readers can experience the various social dynamics of the time, which include class and wealth.

Nick's Characterization and Commentary

Aside from narrating the Great Gatsby, Nick's character also plays a significant role in the events that unfold. He is presented as a moral compass, who despite engaging in non-judgmental relations and conversation with various characters, still maintains his sense of morality. Therefore, Nick becomes a character in which the readers can rely upon to offer a fair and balanced account of the novel's events.

Nick's characterization of the different characters serves in establishing-depth understanding of the personalities and drives that contribute to the novel's plot. For instance, through Nick’s eyes, Daisy is seen as an unattainable and elusive figure, who presents herself as a representation of wealth and beauty. However, Nick's deeper understanding of Gatsby and his elusive aspirations provides the readers with an insight into the tragic nature of his ambition. In addition to this, Nick’s characterization of Tom, Daisy's husband, as being unapologetically racist and abusive to his wife, serves as thematic commentary that enhances the story's overall message.

Nick's Commentary on Social Dynamics

As a narrator, Nick is able to offer his commentary on the various social dynamics presented in the novel; these include wealth, class, and power. Being an outsider to those circles, he can offer an objective and more insightful perspective on the dynamics that typified them. Through Nick's observations, readers are exposed to the excesses and materialistic lifestyles of the wealthy, which is contrasted with the humble and honest values that Nick holds. Moreover, Nick's account of Gatsby's rise to wealth as well as his love for Daisy serves to question the legitimacy of the American Dream as a genuine objective.

The Significance of Nick's Account

The significance of Nick's account in the Great Gatsby cannot be overstated as it provides valuable insights into the novel's themes and characters. As a character somewhat detached from the plot and a witness to the events, his perspective serves as a reflection of the views of the time, which triumphs idols of wealth, power, and social status. The unique perspective of Nick is utilized to question the values of the jazz era, the class and wealth gaps, and the danger of ambition blinding one to the reality of the world.

Nick's account is a vital component of the Great Gatsby. Through his perspective, readers can grasp a more enhanced understanding of the numerous themes that shape the novel. Furthermore, his character and perspective offer an objective view of different characters, their motivations, and the events surrounding the plot. Nick's moral compass and commentary function as a reflective lens that allows readers to draw vital conclusions on the themes and their implications on characters' lives.