How do the three houses (Buchanans, Nick, and Gatsby) indicate the distinctions of wealth?

The three houses in the story - the Buchanans', Nick's, and Gatsby's - serve as symbols of wealth and indicate the distinctions between the characters.

1. The Buchanans' house represents old money and aristocracy. It is described as a "Georgian Colonial mansion" located in East Egg, an affluent area. The house is elegant and luxurious, reflecting the wealth and social status of the Buchanan family. It is filled with expensive furniture, valuable artwork, and exquisite decorations. The Buchanans' house signifies the established upper class and their wealth that has been inherited through generations.

2. Nick's house, on the other hand, represents middle-class prosperity. It is a modest, rented house located in West Egg, a less fashionable neighborhood compared to East Egg. Although not as grand as the Buchanans' house, Nick's home is comfortable and well-maintained. It reflects his stable job and income as a bond salesman. While Nick is not as wealthy as the Buchanans, his house demonstrates a certain level of financial security and social standing.

3. Gatsby's mansion symbolizes new money and the pursuit of the American Dream. Gatsby's house is a colossal mansion situated in West Egg, neighboring Nick's house. It is described as an extravagant and flamboyant display of wealth, featuring luxurious gardens, marble swimming pools, and opulent parties. However, the house lacks the refined taste and elegance of the Buchanans' home. Gatsby's wealth is acquired through illegal activities, such as bootlegging. His house represents the superficiality and materialism associated with new money, as well as the lengths individuals may go to attain social status and success.

Overall, the three houses in the story illustrate the distinctions of wealth, from old money and aristocracy to middle-class comfort and new money obtained through questionable means. They symbolize the different paths characters have taken to achieve or maintain their social standing, and the values and attitudes that accompany each form of wealth.