Fitzgerald’s Vision in the Roaring ’20s

When Fitzgerald penned “The Great Gatsby” during the vibrant Jazz Age, he may not have foreseen that it would become one of the most acclaimed works in American literature. Born in St. Paul, Minnesota, Fitzgerald first rose to fame with his debut novel, “This Side of Paradise,” published when he was just 24 years old. However, despite its initial lukewarm commercial success, Gatsby’s legacy flourished after his untimely death in 1940.

A Story of Aspiration and Disillusionment

The narrative follows Nick Carraway, a Midwesterner who moves to Long Island and becomes entangled in the extravagant world of Jay Gatsby, a wealthy man whose lavish lifestyle hides a tragic pursuit of his lost love, Daisy Buchanan. The green light at the end of Daisy’s dock symbolizes Gatsby’s unreachable dreams and reflects broader themes of ambition and class disparity in America.

Enduring Legacy Post-Publication

Although “The Great Gatsby” received favorable reviews upon its release, it did not achieve commercial success initially, with sales under 25,000 copies. Fitzgerald’s working title, “Trimalchio in West Egg,” was changed to what he deemed a more marketable name. Following his death, however, the novel’s recognition grew significantly, culminating in its ranking as one of the best novels of the 20th century by the Modern Library.

Continued Relevance and Cultural Impact

Since entering the public domain in 2021, “The Great Gatsby” has inspired numerous adaptations, including film versions, stage productions, and a variety of creative reinterpretations. The book has become a cultural touchstone, even manifesting in popular media as a meme with imagery from Baz Luhrmann’s 2013 cinematic adaptation.

Centennial Celebrations

To commemorate the centennial of “The Great Gatsby,” a series of events are scheduled in Fitzgerald’s home state of Minnesota and New York. Highlights include:

• The Empire State Building will illuminate in green, symbolizing the novel’s famous green light.
• A lavish “Roaring Twenties” party at the Empire Steak House, featuring live jazz and 1920s-themed festivities.
• A new exhibit at the Minnesota History Center celebrating Fitzgerald’s life and literary contributions.
• Live readings and discussions of the novel for those unfamiliar with its themes and characters.