In Chapter 2, Nick meets Tom's mistress Myrtle and travels to the valley of ashes to get to New York City. I think that the valley of ashes contradicts The American Dream in this time period. He describes it as a place "where ashes take the forms of houses and chimneys and rising smoke and finally, with a transcendent effort, of men who move dimly and already crumbling through the powdery air." (pg.27) A poor, depressing place such as this is not the American dream, it's not wealth or paradise or success. It represents the complete opposite of what Nick moved out East for, and the complete opposite of what the book tries to portray.
In New York, Nick ends up partying until late into the night at Tom and Myrtle's apartment; Nick is repulsed yet drawn to the interesting people and characters. I think this chapter highlights the adulterous, superficial and self centered life style that Tom and Myrtle lead. It revealed the corruption of the 1920's. Now, I'm not saying that all were superficial and adulterous during this time period but traditions and rules were starting to be broken. Nick, who was only drunk twice in his life, got drunk during this chapter. I think that in itself almost represents how someone from a strong background and morals, could be tempted and corrupted - giving a bad connotation to Myrtle and Tom. It shows how the times were changing.
8 comments:
I like your idea that the Valley of Ashes is the opposite of the American Dream and what Nick wants. It's definitely not the ideal place to live.
I really like your theory of the Valley of Ashes contradicting the American dream. Also, I like how you described the themes in NYC! :)
I also agree with the idea that the Valley of Ashes is the opposite of the American dream. Also, it would be a step in the wrong direction to live there if one is trying to follow the American Dream
I agree with the contradiction the Valley of Ashes has to the American dream, and your description of New York City was extremely well written, perfectly explaining the repulsion he has to the activities but also the attraction to them.
I never thought of the Valley of Ashes as a contradiction of the American Dream until now. I like how you said Nick was repulsed yet drawn to the new characters we meet in the book. I think Nicks feelings toward these people and their actions reflects those of the readers.
I agree with Rose and how I never really noticed the contradiction. It makes sense now that I think about it.
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Food for thought:
The Valley of Ashes seems to be this gray, depressing place. However, George not only has his wife and a place to live, but he owns his own business. Isn't that part of the American Dream? If yes, then why is the Valley of Ashes symbolic of depression?
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