The Great Gatsby: Character & Key Quotes: Klipspringer

Character Overview: Klipspringer

Klipspringer is depicted as a parasitic character, often referred to as “the boarder”, who takes advantage of Gatsby’s wealth and hospitality without showing any concern for his host.
Despite his minor role, Klipspringer serves as a symbol of Gatsby’s party guests’ self-interest and the lack of loyalty among the wealthy and hedonistic people of the Roaring Twenties.
His unwillingness to attend Gatsby’s funeral despite living in his house for months reveals the shallow relationships and moral insincerity of the social elite.

Key Quotes and Analysis:

Character Portrayal:

“This is Klipspringer,” said Gatsby. “He’s an Oxford man.” “Oh!” He was evidently perturbed at Daisy’s running around alone This observation reveals Klipspringer’s apathy towards Gatsby and his more significant interest in maintaining the social status quo.
“I couldn’t get to the funeral, but I sent a nice floral wreath.” Klipspringer’s refusal to attend Gatsby’s funeral but his willingness to send flowers demonstrates his materialistic nature and lack of personal attachment to Gatsby.

Character Traits and Actions:

“I’ve got a social engagement.” Klipspringer’s excuse for not attending Gatsby’s funeral due to a ‘social engagement’ underscores his self-centeredness and lack of moral integrity.
“He had been there early that morning and the grass was wet where his pants had brushed going around.” His usage of the house for his personal enjoyment, unhindered by Gatsby’s death, signifies his exploitation of Gatsby’s wealth.

Symbolism and Themes

“The boarder” The nickname given to Klipspringer underlines the theme of mooching and parasitic behaviour among the wealthy class in the novel.
“Forget my flowers? That’s right. You promised me you’d send them.” Klipspringer’s concern for his lost shoes over Gatsby’s death underlines the theme of materialism and heartlessness among Fitzgerald’s portrayal of the upper class.