The Great Gatsby: Symbolism in Chapters 1-4

            I think that the Great Gatsby is the most interesting character and idea in chapters one through four.  The most obvious reason he is, is because of the mystery that surrounds him and his facade.  Throughout the first couple of chapters little is known about Gatsby, and it seems there are myths and rumors hiding the truth of his origins and acquisition of vast wealth.  Also, Gatsby hints to some "sad thing" that happened to him and I am eager to find out just what that is.  Some symbolisim that related very well to the connection between his image and real self is when the man in his library tells Nick to replace the book because removing one brick could make the whole library collapse.  This relates to the Gatsby because the library represents his image and if one flaw is exposed, or one lie is uncovered then his whole facade could come crashing down.  What also intrests me about the Gatsby is even though he seems to have weaknesses and wholes in his plan I believe its all part of his scheme.  I wonder what his plans with Nick are sense he seems to be treating him special and has no real other friends.  If he really only is being friends with Nick in order to get to Daisy then I think thats why he looked embarresed and left quickly when shaking hands with Tom.  Another symbol that Gatsby embodies is the "glue" that connects the East and West egg.  He has East egg people at his parties but is very wealthy himself.  I feel that he is the american dream and the people that come to his parties are pursuing happiness. 

The Great Gatsby: Characters in chapter 1

Nick is a young educated man who fought in world war 1, people are always telling him secrets. 
                                 "I’m inclined to reserve all judgments, a habit that has opened up many curious natures to me and also made me the victim of not a few veteran bores"


Daisy is a beautiful socialite and her husband cheats on her
                                "For a moment the last sunshine fell with romantic affection upon her glowing face;".

 Tom is her husband and he cheats on her, he is strong, handsome, sexist, rascist, and a socialite as well
                               "he seemed to fill those glistening boots until he strained the top lacing, and could see a great pack of muscle shifting when his shoulder moved under his thin coat. It was a body capable of enormous leverage — a cruel body.. "

 Jordan, is Daisy's friend and eased droped on the phone call between Tom and his mistress
'“Don’t talk. I want to hear what happens.”'

So far, I think the novel is intresting and I like the description the author uses however im confused as to wether he is Nick or not.  I thought I remember talking in class about how the narrator was talking in first person but not actually that person. I like the writing style of the author and am not bothered by his description of other men.  One symbol in the novel is light, or sun and it is usually related with Daisy.  Another is water, and it is described around where Nick lives.