The Symbolic Meaning of Gold in The Great Gatsby

As one delves into F. Scott Fitzgerald's masterpiece, The Great Gatsby, it becomes evident that the novel is replete with symbolic meanings. One such symbol that is consistently mentioned throughout the text is the color gold. The presence of gold in various forms holds great significance within the narrative, representing wealth, materialism, and the American Dream. By exploring the symbolism of gold in The Great Gatsby, one can gain a deeper understanding of the novel and its commentary on the society of the Roaring Twenties.

Gold, in its literal sense, is often associated with wealth and luxury, and this notion is mirrored in the characters of The Great Gatsby. Jay Gatsby, the enigmatic protagonist, is described as having a "gold tie" and living in a "gold house." The gold color of his belongings emphasizes his opulence and the extravagance of his lifestyle. Similarly, the Buchanan residence is characterized by its "gleaming white" appearance and "gold porch," reflecting the wealth and materialism of Tom and Daisy Buchanan. These golden elements serve as reminders of the superficiality and excesses of the upper class during this era.

However, the symbolism of gold in The Great Gatsby extends beyond mere wealth. It also represents the pursuit of the American Dream, a concept deeply ingrained in the novel. The characters in the story are all striving for various versions of this dream, whether it be Gatsby's pursuit of Daisy, Tom's desire for dominance and control, or Myrtle's longing for a higher social status. The color gold, with its association with success and prosperity, becomes a visual representation of this elusive dream. It is the embodiment of the hopes and aspirations that drive these characters, ultimately leading to their downfall.

The symbolism of gold in The Great Gatsby goes beyond its materialistic and dream-like connotations. It also serves as a commentary on the corrupting influence of wealth and the emptiness of the American Dream. Throughout the novel, gold is often depicted as something that is unattainable or ultimately unsatisfying. Gatsby's accumulation of wealth and luxury does not bring him true happiness or fulfillment, as he is haunted by the past and unable to achieve his desired romantic relationship with Daisy.

Furthermore, the pursuit of gold and material wealth leads to moral degradation and the erosion of values. The characters in The Great Gatsby are willing to sacrifice their principles and engage in deceit and betrayal to maintain or gain wealth. This is evident in Gatsby's involvement in illegal activities, Tom's extramarital affair, and Daisy's superficiality. The golden facade of wealth and success masks the moral decay that lies beneath.

In conclusion, the symbolism of gold in The Great Gatsby is multi-faceted and carries significant meaning within the narrative. It represents not only wealth and materialism but also the pursuit of the American Dream and the corruption that accompanies it. The color gold serves as a visual reminder of the excesses and superficialities of the upper class during the Roaring Twenties, as well as a commentary on the emptiness and moral degradation that can result from the relentless pursuit of wealth. By examining the symbolism of gold in this novel, one gains a deeper understanding of the characters, the society they inhabit, and the overarching themes of the American Dream and its consequences.

Works Cited

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