The Great Gatsby: Chapter 9

Chapter 9: Key Quotes

Reflections on Gatsby’s Legacy:

“Let us learn to show our friendship for a man when he is alive and not after he is dead.” This statement made by Meyer Wolfsheim is a critique of the hollow and superficial relationships Gatsby had, reflecting on how many people took advantage of his wealth and hospitality but were absent in his time of need.
“No telephone message arrived, but the butler went without his sleep and waited for it until four o’clock.” This demonstrates the silent abandonment of Gatsby after his death; the vivid imagery paints a picture of loyalty and expectation which is disappointingly unfulfilled.

Character Revelation:

“That request seemed superfluous when I wrote it. I don’t know now.” Nick’s introspection and confusion reflect his changing perspective on Gatsby and the whole world of wealth and ostentatious display he inhabited.
“I found myself on Gatsby’s side, and alone.” This quote underscores Nick’s loyalty to Gatsby, despite all his flaws and questionable activities. It paints Nick as one of Gatsby’s true friends and sets him apart from those who merely took advantage of Gatsby’s hospitality.

Exploration of Themes:

“Gatsby believed in the green light, the orgastic future that year by year recedes before us. It eluded us then, but that’s no matter—tomorrow we will run faster, stretch out our arms farther…“ The green light is referenced again, symbolising the American Dream and Gatsby’s incessant pursuit of it. The notion of always striving for something just out of reach reflects the illusionary nature of the Dream.
“So we beat on, boats against the current, borne back ceaselessly into the past.” This closing line encapsulates the theme of retrogression and the struggle against time and past, inherent in Gatsby’s character and his doomed aspiration.

Incorporation of Symbolism:

“I see now that this had been a story of the West, after all…“ This geographical contrast between East and West represents the original purity of the American Dream as associated with the West, and the corrupted version often witnessed in the East.
“There are only the pursued, the pursuing, the busy and the tired.” This quote offers a grim view of society, dividing people into categories based on their pursuits and preoccupations. It symbolises the ceaseless give-and-take of societal expectations and the human condition.