Question

Throughout “The Great Gatsby”, Gatsby has difficulty accepting that the past is over and done with. Where do you find evidence of his trying to recapture the past? What does this say about him? Should people live their lives yearning for something in the past? Why or why not? What was Fitzgerald’s overall message regarding the theme of time? Provide at least one example to back up your thinking.

Answer 1

Answer: Gatsby built his mansion to recapture his past.

Explanation: ‘Can’t repeat that past?’ he cried incredulously. ‘Why of course you can!'

This is significant because Gatsby wanted to re-live the past. He wanted to re-shape what has already taken place and somehow will his future with Daisy to happen. Gatsby attempts to void the the five years they had not seen each other. He ignores the fact that Daisy is married to Tom and has a child with him.