According to Selvi Bunce, Love and money: An analysis of The Great Gatsby, “Jay Gatsby’s obsession with becoming upper class, alongside his twisted sense of self worth, bring to question whether or not Gatsby really does love Daisy.” This passion to have it all can influence moral corruption in society. In the novel The Great Gatsby, F. Scott Fitzgerald explores the extravagant lifestyle of society in the 1920s, whether wealth is inherited or obtained through illegal activities. However, the story is more than a novel about wealth and the American dream to become wealthy. It is a love story about Jay Gatsby, a military man, who desires to win back the love of Daisy, a beautiful, wealthy married …show more content…
However, Romeo and Juliet’s love is more tragic whereas the love between Gatsby and Daisy is idealistic. It is believed that the story is about true love, which in The Great Gatsby is forbidden by society as Gatsby’s prosperity is considered “new wealth,” which does not have the respect of Daisy’s inherited fortune or “old wealth.” In addition, Gatsby earns his money illegally and does not have the respect from high-class society represented by people such as Tom Buchanan, who has also been connected with unlawful activities. However, the love between Gatsby and Daisy cannot be denied. Daisy professes her love for Gatsby before he goes off to war, and Gatsby knows the romantic love between them is still strong. “Although she has given her promise to Jay, she marries another” (Settle 8). Because he knows she truly loves him instead of Tom, Gatsby is determined to see Daisy again as their feelings for each other are so deep that he is absolutely certain that they will be together again. Then, Daisy professes her love for Gatsby in front of Tom. First, it was through her actions. “Their eyes met, and they stared together at each other, alone in space. With an effort she glanced down at the table. You always look so cool, she repeated. She had told him that she loved him, and Tom Buchanan saw. He was astounded” (Fitzgerald 119). While the words “I love you” were not said, their feelings for each other are unquestionable and obvious to others, including Tom. Then, “At the Plaza she professes unqualified love for Gatsby in front of Tom, only to go back upon the profession shortly thereafter” (Settle 3). Even though they truly love each other, it is society which keeps them apart