This weekend you are to write a 2-4 page reflection in which you analyze the last two paragraphs of the novel and reflect on their significance to the work as a whole in addition to their meaning's impact on the reader. In order to do this fully, you must discuss the diction and the two metaphors in the passage as well as analyze the subverted meaning inherent to it; both for modern and contemporary readers. Be sure to consider the symbolism of the green light, the American Dream and being "borne ceaselessly into the past". Good luck!
As you consider the significance of that last passage, consider the following:
Why is this quote significant to the theme of the American Dream in the novel?
The social climate was drastically changing when this book was written.
The quote basically means that Gatsby has this romantic idea of what life is like. (the green light, orgastic future)
Even though he never really achieved what he thought he would, he is not dismayed. He continues to pursue the ideal happiness that previously eluded him - against the odds. But in the end, his life will still be stuck in the past as he holds onto that pastoral view of the world that helped him initially set the goals of happiness.
(Remember that time and the past are two significant themes in the book. While the American Dream (overall) consists of looking forward and planning for the future, Gatsby is engaged in the opposite: being bourne ceaselessly into the past. It's irony.).
Taken from http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20071213084136AAGmahG
Will we be able to fix these essays even though they are our tests for the book?
ReplyDeleteYes Ma'am
ReplyDeleteMs. Dailey, you gave me this assignment to do this week because I wasn't at school on friday...obviously. But I was with family in Alabama all week and had hardly any time to do school work. Is there any chance that I can make this up to you before, say, wed. or thurs.? I'm hoping to finish The Crucible today, but if I do, I'll have no time to write the reflection..
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