The Great Gatsby: Chapter 3

Chapter 3: Key Quotes

Descriptions of the Setting:

“In his blue gardens men and girls came and went like moths among the whisperings and the champagne and the stars.” This quote sets up the extravagant and dream-like scene of Gatsby’s parties, providing a striking contrast to the bleak Valley of Ashes.
“The bar is in full swing, and floating rounds of cocktails permeate the garden outside.” The effervescent atmosphere adds to the sensation of the glitzy, vibrant high life that Gatsby surrounds himself with.

Character Portrayal:

“He smiled understandingly — much more than understandingly.” This is Nick’s first impression of Gatsby and immediately he perceives Gatsby as someone different from the other attendees, someone who is genuine.
“I believe that on the first night I went to Gatsby’s house I was one of the few guests who had actually been invited.” This strongly underlines the superficiality of the event and the people who frequent there, thereby indirectly providing an inkling about Gatsby’s isolation.

Introduction to Themes:

“I was on my way to get roaring drunk from sheer embarrassment when Jordan Baker came out of the house.” The attachment of characters to alcohol-related imageries reaffirms the theme of hedonism and recklessness that pervaded the Roaring 20s.
“Everybody knows.” This is said about Gatsby’s criminal activities, establishing the theme of illusion versus reality where guests enjoy Gatsby’s hospitality but have no respect or real friendship for him.

Use of Symbolism:

“A sudden emptiness seemed to flow now from the windows and the great doors.” This quote symbolises the hollow and shallow social circle that frequented Gatsby’s extravagant parties.
“In his blue garden…“ Blue here is a symbol for illusion and fantasy. The dream-like quality of Gatsby’s parties and the unreality of the world he has created is encapsulated in this particular colour choice.