The Great Gatsby: Lost Love The novel The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald is a tragic story of lost love. Gatsby, the main character, based his love for Daisy on a young girl he met before he left for the war. In his time away, Gatsby strove to build the American dream while Daisy enjoyed the riches of those who adored her. The character of Daisy is described by Fitzgerald throughout the novel as fickle and superficial. It is their difference in character and devotion that sets them apart. Gatsby eventually realized that Daisy could not live up to what he had imagined as his perfect love. As a young officer, Gatsby was struck by what Daisy represented, old money and a life full of luxuries. He fell deeply in love with young Daisy and vowed to return to her a rich man. While Gatsby went to war, Daisy continued her artificial life. In Gatsby's case, distance made his heart grow fonder. It was evident that Gatsby was following Daisy's activities when he showed her the clippings of their first meeting. “Look at this,” Gatsby said quickly. “There are many clippings of you here.” (90) He knew what he had to do to get Daisy back, even if it meant making money through illegal means. Daisy grew tired of pining for her officer and soon her love was purchased by a new suitor, Tom Buchanan, with a $30,000 pearl necklace. Money was what Daisy wanted. James Gatz was a poor farm boy who saw his life as one of poverty. He knew he wanted more and worked hard to improve his life. Daisy grew tired of waiting for him early in their relationship because other wealthy officers pursued her. When they met again she was struck by his wealth. His dream of a better life gave him purpose. Daisy's purpose in life was material comfort and luxury. Daisy's empty existence and the people she surrounded herself with contrasted with Gatsby's dreams, which gave meaning to his very identity. Nick demonstrates this when he tells Gatsby, “They are a foul crowd,” I shouted from across the lawn. "You're worth the whole damn group put together." (146)Gatsby's obsession with Daisy made him blind to what her true character was. Gatsby loved the Daisy of the past. Daisy was a very superficial and materialistic person, attracted only to an individual's wealth