Topic > What does the color blue symbolize in The Great Gatsby

IndexThe illusion of the American dreamThe elusive nature of true happinessConclusionBibliographyThe color blue holds significant symbolism throughout F. Scott Fitzgerald's masterpiece, The Great Gatsby. In this essay we will explore the various meanings and implications associated with the color blue in the novel. Through careful analysis of the text, we will discover how blue represents both the illusion of the American dream and the elusive nature of true happiness. By examining key instances where the color blue is mentioned, we will gain a deeper understanding of the novel's themes and motifs. Eventually, it becomes clear that the color blue symbolizes the characters' desires, struggles, and the unattainable nature of their dreams. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay The Illusion of the American Dream One of the central themes of The Great Gatsby is the pursuit of the American Dream, which promises wealth, success, and happiness. However, Fitzgerald uses the color blue to imply that this dream is simply an illusion. The character of Jay Gatsby, driven by the desire to achieve wealth and win the love of Daisy Buchanan, is often associated with the color blue. For example, Gatsby's mansion is described as having a "blue lawn" (Fitzgerald 9). This image conveys a sense of artificiality and superficiality, suggesting that Gatsby's wealth and extravagant lifestyle are just a facade. Furthermore, Gatsby's pursuit of Daisy is also associated with the color blue. When Gatsby sees Daisy for the first time in many years, he is described as having "blue shirts" (Fitzgerald 89). This detail highlights Gatsby's longing for an unattainable past, as well as his desire to recreate a love that has long faded. The color blue, in this context, symbolizes Gatsby's unfulfilled dreams and the emptiness of his pursuit of the American dream. The Elusive Nature of True Happiness In addition to representing the illusion of the American Dream, the color blue in The Great Gatsby also symbolizes the characters' search for happiness. Despite their seemingly luxurious lifestyle, the characters in the novel are ultimately dissatisfied and unhappy. This is especially evident in the character of Daisy, who is described as having “sad eyes” that are “the same color as the blue meadow” (Fitzgerald 9). The color blue, in this case, represents Daisy's unhappiness and her inability to find true fulfillment in her life. Similarly, the character of Myrtle Wilson, who is in a relationship with Tom Buchanan, is associated with the color blue. When Myrtle is killed in a tragic accident, Fitzgerald describes her body as "blue" (Fitzgerald 143). This image highlights the tragic consequences of pursuing happiness in the wrong places and suggests that true happiness is unattainable for characters like Myrtle. Overall, the color blue in The Great Gatsby symbolizes the characters' desires and struggles, as well as the unattainable nature of their aspirations. dreams. Whether it represents the illusion of the American dream or the elusive nature of true happiness, blue serves as a powerful symbol throughout the novel. Fitzgerald's use of this color adds depth and complexity to the themes and motifs explored in the text and draws attention to the characters' futile attempts to find meaning in their lives. Conclusion In conclusion, the color blue in The Great Gatsby contains significant symbolism, representing both the illusion of the American dream and the elusive nature of true happiness. Through the use of this color, Fitzgerald conveys the desires, struggles, and unattainable nature of their dreams. Be it the pursuit of wealth and love from, 2004.