Nick Carraway’s Quest for Control- A Journey Through The Great Gatsby’s Ambiguity

What does Nick Carraway want to control? This question delves into the complex psyche of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s iconic character from “The Great Gatsby.” Nick Carraway, a young man from the Midwest, moves to New York City in the 1920s, aspiring to achieve the American Dream. Throughout the novel, Nick’s desire to control various aspects of his life and the lives around him becomes increasingly evident, reflecting the broader themes of ambition, materialism, and the elusive nature of the American Dream.

In the beginning, Nick’s primary goal is to control his own destiny. He arrives in New York with a clear vision of what he wants to achieve: to become a successful bond salesman and to rise above his modest background. Nick’s determination to control his own path is evident in his decision to move to West Egg, a more affluent area, and to rent a house there. This move symbolizes his desire to elevate himself to a higher social status and to gain the respect of his peers.

However, as the novel progresses, Nick’s desire to control extends beyond his own life. He becomes increasingly concerned with the lives of others, particularly his friends and neighbors. He tries to control the behavior of Tom and Daisy Buchanan, who represent the epitome of the American Dream gone awry. Nick is appalled by their selfishness and the damage they cause to others, and he repeatedly attempts to intervene and guide them towards a better path.

Moreover, Nick struggles to control the chaos and moral decay that surrounds him. The excesses of the 1920s, including the rampant materialism and moral relativism, leave him feeling overwhelmed and out of control. He is particularly disturbed by the character of Jordan Baker, a professional golfer and socialite who embodies the worst aspects of the era. Nick’s attempts to understand and control Jordan’s moral compass are unsuccessful, reflecting the broader struggle to maintain one’s integrity in a corrupt world.

Ultimately, Nick’s desire to control is rooted in his search for meaning and purpose in a rapidly changing world. He is constantly trying to make sense of the chaos around him and to find a moral anchor. However, as the novel comes to a tragic end, it becomes clear that Nick’s quest for control is ultimately futile. The American Dream, as he has come to understand it, is an illusion, and the world is beyond his control.

In conclusion, Nick Carraway’s desire to control is a central theme in “The Great Gatsby.” It reflects his struggle to navigate the complexities of the 1920s and to maintain his sense of morality in a corrupt world. While Nick’s attempts to control his own life and the lives of others are ultimately unsuccessful, they serve as a poignant commentary on the human condition and the elusive nature of the American Dream.