When narrator Nick Carraway moves next door to a grand house and discovers that his cousin Daisy shares a past connection with its owner, he determines to learn about the mysterious man who calls himself Jay Gatsby.
Can I be honest?
Wow. Wow! I feel like I need to reread The Great Gatsby again just to absorb it all. The ending so took me by surprise. I read bits and pieces of the forward and afterward, and the notes on the author really struck me. He basically wanted to write something amazing and yet shockingly simple. I have to say, that for a classic, this was a really easy read.
I love reading classics-- but you have to go slower to process what you're reading. Usually. The Great Gatsby read simply and quickly, which was perfect for the setting and pace of the story.
It impressed me to learn that he (F Scott Fitzgerald) continued to revise all the way through the process-- even making major revisions on the galleys. Which probably drove his editor crazy. But I love the idea that he was that committed to making this piece perfect.
If I could write something that stands the test of time, which I think is really every writer's deepest dream, I'd want it to be something like this. Simple. Poignant. Wrestling with issues of the heart. For now, I go back to being in awe and adding this one to my list of "must-own" novels. (Well, and of course working on my own craft... One can always hope. And improve!)
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1 comment:
I read this in high school, part of the curriculum. After reading your review I am certain I need to read it again. I don't think I got nearly as much out of it by having to read it as I would now, wanting to read it. Thanks!! =)
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