Question
What techniques does Fitzgerald use to introduce tension between Tom and Daisy?
Answer
In “The Great Gatsby,” F. Scott Fitzgerald introduces tension between Tom and Daisy Buchanan through various narrative techniques and thematic contrasts.
Techniques Used to Introduce Tension
Juxtaposition and Contrast: Fitzgerald contrasts Tom’s corrupt materialism with Gatsby’s romantic idealism. This juxtaposition highlights the moral and emotional divide between Tom and Daisy, as Tom represents a more cynical and materialistic worldview, while Gatsby embodies a hopeful, albeit naive, romanticism (고영란, 2012; Wasiolek, 1992).
Narrative Perspective: The story is narrated by Nick Carraway, whose perspective shapes the reader’s understanding of the characters. Nick’s evolving view of Gatsby as a tragic hero contrasts sharply with his perception of Tom as arrogant and cruel, which adds to the tension between Tom and Daisy by highlighting their differing values and motivations (Wasiolek, 1992).
Symbolism and Imagery: Fitzgerald uses vivid imagery and symbolism to underscore the tension. For example, Daisy’s voice is described as “full of money,” symbolizing her entanglement with wealth and status, which is a source of conflict with Tom, who is deeply entrenched in maintaining his social position (Norris, 2018).
Conflict and Climax: The tension reaches a peak during the confrontation between Tom and Gatsby in the hotel, where underlying resentments and rivalries come to the forefront. This scene is pivotal in exposing the fragility of Tom and Daisy’s relationship and the competing desires that drive them apart (Widiantari, Kardana and Sugihantara, 2021).
Narrative Syncopation: Fitzgerald employs a technique akin to “narrative syncopation,” delivering key information subtly and off-beat, which creates an underlying tension that builds throughout the novel. This method allows the reader to sense the discord between Tom and Daisy without it being overtly stated (Phillips, 2022).
Conclusion
Fitzgerald skillfully introduces tension between Tom and Daisy through narrative techniques such as juxtaposition, symbolism, and strategic narrative perspective. These elements highlight the moral and emotional conflicts that define their relationship, ultimately contributing to the novel’s dramatic tension and thematic depth.
References
Widiantari, N., Kardana, I., & Sugihantara, A., 2021. Plot of Fitzgerald’s the Great Gatsby. Proceedings of the First International Seminar Social Science, Humanities and Education, ISSHE 2020, 25 November 2020, Kendari, Southeast Sulawesi, Indonesia. https://doi.org/10.4108/EAI.25-11-2020.2306660
Phillips, T., 2022. Sisters Under the Skin: The Great Gatsby as Jazz and Racial History. The F. Scott Fitzgerald Review, 19, pp. 189 – 202.
, 고., 2012. “위대한”개츠비를 위한 서술기법. **, 19, pp. 5-32.
Norris, M., 2018. “Her Voice is Full of Money”: Mechanical Reproduction and a Metaphysics of Substance in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby. English Studies, 99, pp. 890 – 903. https://doi.org/10.1080/0013838X.2018.1541217
Wasiolek, E., 1992. The Sexual Drama of Nick and Gatsby. The International Fiction Review, 19.
Fitzgerald, F. S. (2001) [1925] The Great Gatsby. London: Wordsworth editions.
