The Great Gatsby: Key Quotes Chapter 2

Chapter 2: Key Quotes

Descriptions of the Setting:

“This is a valley of ashes—a fantastic farm where ashes grow like wheat into ridges and hills and grotesque gardens; where ashes take the forms of houses and chimneys and rising smoke.” This desolate description of the Valley of Ashes symbolises the decay and corruption brought about by the pursuit of the American Dream.
“The eyes of Doctor T.J. Eckleburg are blue and gigantic.” This recurring image serves to depict the moral decay of American society, and the failure of spiritual values in an era of rampant materialism.

Character Portrayal:

“Tom’s got some woman in New York.” With this line, Jordan Baker reveals Tom Buchanan’s infidelity, reinforcing his characterisation as a morally corrupt individual.
“I married him because I thought he was a gentleman… I thought he knew something about breeding, but he wasn’t fit to lick my shoe.” Myrtle’s words reveal her regret and dissatisfaction, reinforcing the theme of the illusion of love and the disillusionment of the American Dream.

Introduction to Themes:

“It was all very careless and confused.” This quote sums up the chaotic and reckless behaviours of the characters, mirroring the moral decline of society during the Roaring Twenties.
“I will not marry him, said Myrtle Wilson, flushing slightly.He merely looked at her and laughed.” This discussion between Myrtle and Tom symbolises the power dynamics between genders and classes in the society of the 1920s.

Use of Symbolism:

“The valley of ashes is bounded on one side by a small foul river.” The foul river, like the valley of ashes, is a symbol of the moral and social decay that results from the unhindered pursuit of wealth.
“I followed him over a low whitewashed railroad fence, and we walked back a hundred yards along the road under Doctor Eckleburg’s persistent stare.” The constant reminder of Doctor Eckleburg’s decaying billboard highlights the novel’s central theme of societal decay and moral disillusionment.