IndexIntroductionBody of the paragraphConclusionIntroduction"The Great Gatsby" by F. Scott Fitzgerald is a seminal piece of American literature that captures the essence of the Jazz Age and the elusive nature of American dream. One of the most touching moments of the novel is the final scene, which encompasses the themes of hope, disillusionment and the inexorable passage of time. In this essay we will analyze the closing scene of "The Great Gatsby," exploring its symbolism, thematic significance, and its commentary on the larger social context of the 1920s. By analyzing the final passages, we can gain deeper insight into the characters' final fate and the novel's lasting message. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original EssayBody ParagraphThe final scene of "The Great Gatsby" takes place after the tragic death of Jay Gatsby, the enigmatic millionaire whose life and aspirations form the crux of the narrative. Nick Carraway, the novel's narrator, reflects on the futility of Gatsby's dreams as he stands on the shore of Long Island Sound, watching the green light on Daisy Buchanan's dock. The green light, a recurring symbol throughout the novel, represents Gatsby's fiery, unattainable dreams. In this scene, the light takes on a double meaning: it symbolizes both the hope that animated Gatsby and the ultimate illusion of the American dream. Nick's contemplation of the green light highlights the central theme of aspiration versus reality, suggesting that the dreams of wealth and success Gatsby pursued were always unattainable, a mirage in the distance. Fitzgerald's use of setting in the final scene is equally significant. The desolate shore and vast expanse of water evoke a sense of isolation and the inexorable passage of time. Nick's reflection that "Gatsby believed in the green light, in the orgastic future that year after year recedes before us" captures the essence of Gatsby's unshakable optimism and the tragedy of his steadfast belief in a dream doomed since start. These images reinforce the novel's critique of the American Dream, highlighting the disparity between the idealized vision of success and the harsh realities that often accompany the pursuit of such dreams. Furthermore, the final lines of the novel, “So we row on, boats against the current, ceaselessly carried back into the past,” encapsulate the cyclical nature of human endeavor and the inevitability of returning to our origins. This metaphor suggests that despite our efforts to move forward and achieve our aspirations, we are continually pulled back by the weight of our past experiences and the relentless passage of time. This notion is particularly relevant to the character of Gatsby, whose obsessive fixation on recreating his past romance with Daisy ultimately leads to his downfall. The final scene, then, serves as a poignant commentary on the futility of trying to escape one's past and the inherent limitations of the American dream. Please note: this is just an example. Get a custom paper from our expert writers now. Get Custom EssayConclusionIn conclusion, the final scene of "The Great Gatsby" is a masterful culmination of the novel's themes and symbolism. Through the reflections of Nick Carraway and evocative images of green light and desolate beach, Fitzgerald poignantly captures the essence of the American dream as an elusive and ultimately unattainable ideal. The scene highlights the central motif of aspiration versus reality, illustrating the disillusionment that often accompanies the relentless pursuit of success. Also, the metaphor.