The concept of the American Dream, the belief in the possibility of upward social mobility and success achieved through hard work, has been a theme for centuries central to American literature. In F. Scott Fitzgerald's novel, The Great Gatsby, this idealized vision of the American dream is explored through the lives and aspirations of the characters. However, Fitzgerald presents a critical perspective on this dream, suggesting that it is ultimately an elusive and illusory goal. Through the use of various quotes, Fitzgerald exposes the emptiness and emptiness that underlie the pursuit of the American dream, revealing the tragic consequences of its unattainability. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay One of the most iconic quotes from The Great Gatsby that captures the essence of the American dream is when Nick Carraway, the narrator, reflects on the allure and attraction of Gatsby's wealth and success. He states: "Gatsby believed in the green light, in the orgiastic future that year after year recedes before us. It eluded us then, but it doesn't matter: tomorrow we will run faster, we will stretch our arms further... And one fine morning —So we continue rowing, boats against the current, pushed back incessantly into the past" (Fitzgerald, 180). This quote encapsulates Daisy Buchanan's relentless pursuit of the American Dream, represented by the green light at the end of Daisy Buchanan's pier. Gatsby, like many others, believes that with enough determination and effort it will be possible to realize his dream of wealth and love. However, Fitzgerald suggests that this dream is ultimately unattainable, as it steadily recedes into the future, leaving individuals trapped in a perpetual cycle of striving and longing. Fitzgerald further explores the illusory nature of the American dream through the character of Jay Gatsby himself. Gatsby, a self-made millionaire, embodies the ideal of success and prosperity. His extravagant parties, lavish possessions, and ostentatious lifestyle are all symbols of the American dream. However, despite his material wealth, Gatsby remains dissatisfied and dissatisfied. As Nick observes, “There must have been moments even that afternoon when Daisy failed to realize her dreams, not through any fault of her own but because of the colossal vitality of her illusion” (Fitzgerald, 101). Gatsby's dream of reuniting with Daisy, his lost love, is built on an idealized image of her that fails to align with reality. His obsession with recreating the past and erasing the five years they spent apart ultimately leads to his downfall. Fitzgerald uses Gatsby's tragic fate to highlight the dangers of pursuing a dream built on illusions and fantasies. Furthermore, Fitzgerald uses the character of Tom Buchanan to expose the corruption and moral decay that often accompany the pursuit of the American dream. Tom, a wealthy and privileged individual, represents the old moneyed aristocracy who inherited their wealth and social status. Despite his privileged position, Tom is deeply dissatisfied and seeks fulfillment elsewhere. Engages in extramarital affairs and displays a sense of entitlement and superiority. In a conversation with Nick, he dismisses Gatsby's wealth and success, stating, "I found out what your 'drugstores' were...He and this Wolfshiem bought up a lot of drugstores on the side streets here and in Chicago and sold alcohol over the counter . This is one of his little gimmicks. I chose him for a smuggler the first time I saw him, and I wasn't much wrong" (Fitzgerald, 141). This quote is revealing,, 1925.