preview

Jay Gatsby American Dream Failure

Decent Essays

The next example of someone who attempted to achieve the American Dream, but failed is Jay Gatsby, a character from the Great Gatsby. Jay Gatsby came from humble roots and grew up on a rural farm in North Dakota. Although he did not have any money or connections, he was determined to make a name for himself and become wealthy. His dad said “Jimmy was bound to get ahead. He always had some resolves like this or something. Do you notice what he's got about improving his mind?” (Fitzgerald, pg. 170) Clearly, Gatsby believed in the American Dream and that if you worked hard enough you could accomplish anything. After he reinvented himself, he became extremely rich. He lived in a gigantic mansion and threw extravagant parties every weekend. Although

Get Access