Introduction:

Literary Analysis of “The Great Gatsby” and Its Reflection on Contemporary

Issues of Wealth and Class

F. Scott Fitzgerald’s “The Great Gatsby,” published in 1925, is often heralded as

one of the quintessential American novels, capturing the essence of the Jazz Age
and the complexities of the American Dream. At its core, the narrative revolves
around Jay Gatsby’s relentless pursuit of wealth and status in a society that equates
success with material possession. While set in the Roaring Twenties, Fitzgerald’s
exploration of themes such as class disparity, social stratification, and the elusive
nature of happiness resonates profoundly with contemporary issues surrounding
wealth inequality and consumerism.

In today’s world, where economic divides are increasingly pronounced and

discussions about privilege and access dominate public discourse, “The Great
Gatsby” serves as a poignant lens through which to examine these enduring
societal challenges. The novel’s portrayal of characters like Gatsby, who embodies
both aspiration and tragedy, invites readers to reflect on their own values regarding
success and fulfillment. As we navigate an era marked by stark contrasts between
affluence and poverty—exemplified by movements advocating for economic
justice—the relevance of Fitzgerald’s critique becomes ever more apparent.

This analysis will delve into how “The Great Gatsby” not only critiques the
American Dream but also mirrors contemporary societal dynamics related to
wealth accumulation, class identity, and the pursuit of happiness. By examining
key characters, symbols, and motifs within the text, we will uncover how
Fitzgerald’s insights continue to illuminate our understanding of modern socio-
economic realities. Through this exploration, we aim to highlight the timelessness
of Fitzgerald’s work while engaging with pressing issues that shape our current
landscape.
A strong example of a classic novel with historical context that relates to a
contemporary issue is 1984 by George Orwell.

Historical Context
1984, published in 1949, was heavily influenced by the political climate of the
mid-20th century. Orwell wrote the novel in the aftermath of World War II, during
the rise of totalitarian regimes such as Stalinist Russia and Nazi Germany. The
novel reflects fears of government overreach, mass surveillance, propaganda, and
the suppression of free thought. Orwell, a democratic socialist, was particularly
critical of the ways in which political power could manipulate truth and control
society.

Contemporary Connection:
Wealth Inequality and the Illusion of Social Mobility
The themes of The Great Gatsby remain relevant today, especially in discussions
about wealth inequality and the accessibility of the American Dream. In the
modern era, economic disparity has widened, with the top 1% controlling a
disproportionate share of wealth. Just as Gatsby accumulates wealth in an attempt
to win Daisy but remains an outsider to old money elites, many today find that
financial success does not guarantee social acceptance or happiness. The struggle
for upward mobility is still hindered by systemic barriers such as race, education,
and economic background.

Literary Analysis :
Symbols of Wealth Inequality
1. The Green Light: The Unattainable Dream
The green light at the end of Daisy’s dock symbolizes Gatsby’s longing for a future
he can never reach—just as many today struggle to achieve financial stability
despite working hard. The green light represents the illusion of the American
Dream, suggesting that economic success is always just out of reach for those not
born into privilege.
2. The Valley of Ashes: The Forgotten Working Class
The Valley of Ashes, a desolate industrial wasteland, represents the working poor
who are left behind in the pursuit of wealth. In today’s world, this can be compared
to communities affected by job loss due to automation, wage stagnation, and lack
of economic mobility. Just as the wealthy characters in the novel ignore or exploit
the residents of the Valley of Ashes, modern billionaires and corporations often
benefit from cheap labor while widening the economic gap.
3. Gatsby’s Downfall: The Limits of Economic Mobility
Despite Gatsby’s immense wealth, he remains an outsider to the old-money
aristocracy, proving that financial success does not guarantee acceptance or
security. This mirrors how, today, wealth alone does not always translate to power
or influence unless it is backed by generational privilege. Many self-made
individuals still face barriers in elite circles, and economic systems often favor
those who are already wealthy.
F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby offers a poignant critique of wealth
inequality during the Roaring Twenties, a theme that remains strikingly relevant
today. The novel’s portrayal of the vast divide between the affluent and the
impoverished mirrors current global economic disparities.

Contemporary Wealth Inequality:

A Statistical Overview

• Global Perspective: Recent data reveals that the richest 1% of the global
population possesses more wealth than the remaining 95% combined.

• United States: The U.S. stands as the most unequal country within the
OECD, with the top 1% earning 21% of the national income.
• India: In India, the wealthiest 1% hold 40.1% of the nation’s wealth,
marking the highest concentration since 1961

Parallels Between Gatsby’s Era and Today:

Wealth Inequality and the Illusion of the American Dream

F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby (1925) captures the excess, ambition, and
deep inequalities of the Roaring Twenties—a period marked by economic boom,
rapid industrialization, and stark social divides. Nearly a century later, many of the
novel’s themes remain strikingly relevant, as contemporary society grapples with
wealth inequality, the illusion of social mobility, and the consequences of
unchecked capitalism

Historical Parallels: The 1920s vs. Today

1. Economic Boom and Wealth Disparity
• 1920s: The U.S. experienced rapid economic growth, driven by industrial
expansion, mass production, and consumerism. However, wealth was
concentrated in the hands of the elite, while working-class Americans
struggled with low wages and economic instability.

• Today: The global economy has seen a surge in wealth, especially with the
rise of technology, finance, and globalization. Yet, wealth inequality has
 widened significantly, with the top 1% owning more wealth than the bottom
95% combined.

2. The American Dream: Promise vs. Reality

*1920s: Gatsby embodies the self-made man, believing that wealth can buy status,
happiness, and love. However, he remains an outsider to the old-money aristocracy,
illustrating how class barriers persist despite economic success.
• Today: Many still chase the idea of upward mobility, but systemic barriers—
student debt, wage stagnation, and corporate monopolies—often make it
difficult for the average person to achieve long-term financial security. The
gap between aspiration and reality mirrors Gatsby’s unattainable dream

Conclusion:
The Enduring Relevance of Classic Literature in Addressing Contemporary Issues
Classic novels like The Great Gatsby remain profoundly relevant because they
expose timeless social, economic, and moral struggles that persist in contemporary
society. Fitzgerald’s critique of wealth inequality, the illusion of the American
Dream, and the rigid barriers of social class mirrors modern concerns about
economic disparity, corporate power, and social mobility
Through literary symbols like the green light, representing unattainable dreams,
and the Valley of Ashes, symbolizing the working class left behind, the novel
offers a cautionary tale about the limits of success in an unequal society. Today, as
debates over wealth distribution, financial instability, and the concentration of
power among the elite continue, Gatsby’s tragic pursuit of status and acceptance
serves as a warning about the hollow pursuit of material wealth.

Ultimately, the lasting power of classic literature lies in its ability to reflect societal
patterns and challenge readers to question the structures that govern their world.
By studying these works, we gain insight into both past and present injustices—
ensuring that the lessons they offer remain vital for future generations.