The concept of the American dream, the belief in the possibility of upward social mobility and success achieved through hard work, is a central theme of American literature for centuries. . In F. Scott Fitzgerald's novel The Great Gatsby, this idealized vision of the American dream is explored through the lives and aspirations of the characters. However, Fitzgerald presents a critical perspective on this dream, suggesting that it is ultimately an elusive and illusory goal. Using various quotes, Fitzgerald exposes the emptiness that underlies the pursuit of the American dream, revealing the tragic consequences of its unrealization. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get an original essay One of the most iconic quotes from The Great Gatsby that captures the essence of the American dream is when Nick Carraway, the narrator, reflects on the allure and appeal of Gatsby's wealth and success . He says: “Gatsby believed in the green light, in the orgiastic future that, year by year, recedes before us. It escaped us then, but it doesn't matter: tomorrow we will run faster, we will stretch our arms further... And one beautiful morning. “So we continued, boats against the current, drawn back again and again into the past” (Fitzgerald, 180). This quote sums up the relentless pursuit of the American dream, represented by the green light at the end of Daisy Buchanan's platform. Gatsby, like many others, believes that with enough determination and effort, he can achieve his dream of wealth and love. However, Fitzgerald suggests that this dream is ultimately unattainable, as it constantly recedes further into the future, leaving individuals trapped in a perpetual cycle of striving and desire. Fitzgerald further explores the illusory nature of the American dream through the character of Jay Gatsby himself. Gatsby, a self-made millionaire, embodies the ideal of success and prosperity. His extravagant parties, luxurious possessions, and ostentatious lifestyle are all symbols of the American dream. However, despite his material wealth, Gatsby remains dissatisfied and dissatisfied. As Nick observes: “There must have been times even this afternoon when Daisy failed to realize her dreams – not through her own fault but because of the colossal vitality of her illusion” (Fitzgerald, 101 ). Gatsby's dream of finding Daisy, his lost love, is based on an idealized image of her that does not correspond to reality. His obsession with recreating the past and erasing the five years they spent together ultimately leads to his downfall. Fitzgerald uses Gatsby's tragic fate to highlight the dangers of pursuing a dream built on illusions and fantasies. Additionally, Fitzgerald uses the character of Tom Buchanan to expose the corruption and moral decadence that often accompany the pursuit of the American dream. Tom, a wealthy and privileged individual, represents the old financial aristocracy who inherited their wealth and social status. Despite his privileged position, Tom is deeply dissatisfied and seeks fulfillment elsewhere. He engages in extramarital affairs and displays a sense of entitlement and superiority. In a conversation with Nick, he dismisses Gatsby's wealth and success, stating, "I found out what your 'drugstores' were... He and this Wolfshiem bought a lot of street drugstores here and in Chicago and I was selling grain alcohol without a prescription. It's one of his little tricks. I picked him for a smuggler the first time I saw him, and I wasn't wrong" (Fitzgerald, 141). This quote reveals the hypocrisy and moral bankruptcy that can accompany,, 1925.