Plot: The Beginning

Introduction

The Great Gatsby opens with the narrator, Nick Carraway, moving East to New York City to work in bonds.
He rents a house in West Egg, a less fashionable area, where he discovers his neighbour is the mysterious and wealthy Jay Gatsby.

Gatsby’s Parties

Gatsby’s mansion in West Egg is known for its extravagant and flamboyant parties.
Despite many of the local elite attending, very few actually know Gatsby.
Gatsby is depicted as a social enigma, with various rumours about his past.

Meeting Daisy

Nick’s cousin, Daisy Buchanan, lives across the bay in the more desirable East Egg with her husband Tom.
Daisy is portrayed as beautiful and charming, and we learn that Nick and Gatsby have a shared history with her.

Introduction to Tom’s Affair

During a visit, Nick is introduced to Jordan Baker, a cynical young woman with whom Nick begins a romantic relationship.
Through Jordan, Nick learns about Tom’s affair with Myrtle Wilson, a woman from the Valley of Ashes.

Gatsby’s Interest in Nick

Gatsby invites Nick to one of his parties, showing an unusually keen interest in Nick, which is later revealed to be due to his connection to Daisy.
The first section of the novel concludes with Gatsby reaching out towards a green light at the end of the Buchanan’s dock – symbolising his longing for Daisy.

Summary

The beginning of The Great Gatsby is significant in establishing the geographical and social settings of the novel, and introducing the complex relationships between characters. It sets the scene for Gatsby’s deep-seated longing for Daisy, which is a crucial element of the novel’s plot.