Chapter four notes and thoughts

Once again, this post is courtesy of Forsberg. Thank him if you've learned anything at all from me.

This will give you some historical context for chapter four, especially about Meyer Wolfsheim. www.answers.com/topic/the-great-gatsby-novel-5

Here are the things that Forsberg and I wonder about...We hear lots of rumors about Gatsby, who he is, what he has done. This book seems to promote the idea that when enough people say something, it must be the truth. With that in mind--look at all the rumors about Gatsby. What does that tell the reader?

Think about the story Gatsby tells Nick on their way into New York. Does his evidence seem solid, or is it circumstantial? Would his evidence prove his story in court?

Two more parties in this chapter--lunch and tea. What happens at each? Why does Gatsby disappear after Nick introduces him to Tom? Meyer Wolfsheim—what kind of power does he have? Why would Fitzgerald include such strange detail about his jewelry? This is important.

What do Nick and we find out about Gatsby at tea? Should we believe Jordan--remember she's dishonest, oh, but wait--so is Nick--and just a second--Gatsby says he's from the Midwest--San Francisco. Is there a San Francisco, North Dakota? Does it seem like Gatsby’s story has holes in it? Who do you trust in this story? Ask yourself why you trust that person.