Weather Symbolism in The Great Gatsby

Throughout F. Scott Fitzgerald's novel, The Great Gatsby, weather symbolism is employed to convey the characters' emotions, foreshadow events, and reflect the overall themes of the story. The weather serves as a powerful literary device, reinforcing the narrative's motifs and enhancing the reader's understanding of the characters and their experiences. This essay will explore the various ways in which weather symbolism is utilized in the novel, examining the implications of these symbols and their significance within the broader context of the story.

Weather as a Reflection of Emotions

One of the key functions of weather symbolism in The Great Gatsby is to reflect the characters' emotions and inner turmoil. The author employs different weather conditions to mirror the psychological states of the characters, providing insight into their thoughts and feelings. An example of this can be seen when Gatsby and Daisy are reunited after several years:

"The next day was broiling, almost the last, certainly the warmest, of the summer" (Fitzgerald, 92).

In this scene, the scorching heat of the summer day mirrors the intense passion and desire shared between Gatsby and Daisy. The weather acts as a visual representation of their heated emotions, emphasizing the significance of their reunion and the intensity of their relationship.

Furthermore, the use of weather symbolism extends beyond the main characters. Fitzgerald employs weather to convey the general atmosphere and mood of the story. For instance, during Tom and Daisy's visit to Gatsby's mansion, a storm erupts:

"The rain cooled about half-past three to a damp mist, through which occasional thin drops swam like dew" (Fitzgerald, 81).

The stormy weather reflects the tension and unease present in the scene, foreshadowing the conflict that will arise between the characters. This use of weather symbolism not only enhances the reader's understanding of the emotional dynamics between the characters but also contributes to the overall atmosphere of the narrative.

Weather as a Foreshadowing Device

In addition to reflecting emotions, weather symbolism is also utilized as a foreshadowing device in The Great Gatsby. Through the use of specific weather conditions, Fitzgerald hints at future events and builds anticipation within the narrative. One instance of this can be seen when Gatsby and Daisy are driving together:

"The rain was still falling, but the darkness had parted in the west, and there was a pink and golden billow of foamy clouds above the sea" (Fitzgerald, 92).

The appearance of the pink and golden clouds suggests a glimmer of hope and happiness in Gatsby's life, foreshadowing his imminent reunion with Daisy. However, the ongoing rain serves as a reminder of the obstacles that lie ahead, hinting at the tragic end that awaits Gatsby and his dreams.

Furthermore, the novel's infamous ending is also foreshadowed through weather symbolism. As Gatsby's life begins to unravel and his dreams crumble, the weather takes a turn for the worse:

"The sky grew darker, and the east wind blew strong" (Fitzgerald, 133).

This change in weather signifies the impending tragedy and serves as a metaphor for Gatsby's downfall. The stormy conditions mirror the chaos and destruction that will ultimately consume Gatsby's life.

Weather as a Reflection of Themes

Weather symbolism in The Great Gatsby not only reflects emotions and foreshadows events but also aligns with the novel's broader themes. One prominent theme in the story is the contrasting nature of the American Dream. The weather is utilized to emphasize this theme, highlighting the disparity between the characters' aspirations and the reality they face.

For example, in the opening pages of the novel, the weather is described as oppressive and suffocating:

"...hot, whirling wind blew through the windows of the car, and the smell of dust...in the heat the dust-filled air...seemed to quiver" (Fitzgerald, 5).

This stifling atmosphere mirrors the disillusionment and unattainability of the American Dream. The weather serves as a metaphor for the oppressive societal forces that hinder Gatsby and the other characters from achieving their dreams.

Furthermore, the recurring motif of rain in the novel represents the cleansing and purifying nature of truth. Rain often follows moments of revelation or confrontation, washing away the facade and exposing the characters' true selves. This aligns with the theme of illusion versus reality, as the rain reveals the truth behind the characters' superficial lives and deceptions.

Conclusion

In conclusion, weather symbolism in The Great Gatsby plays a significant role in conveying the characters' emotions, foreshadowing events, and reflecting the novel's themes. Through the use of weather conditions such as heat, storms, and rain, F. Scott Fitzgerald enhances the reader's understanding of the narrative, deepening the symbolism and adding depth to the characters' experiences. The weather serves as a powerful literary device, reinforcing the motifs and themes of the novel, and contributing to its overall impact and resonance.

Works Cited:

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