Diver And Great Gatsby Essay Example

aware that he is not the financially dominant partner in his marriage; Nicole possesses seemingly infinite wealth. Although Tender is the Night is set during the Wall Street Crash and the Great Depression, Fitzgerald moves his characters away from the economic downturn in the United States to the French Riviera, where the impact of the Depression on society was not as profound. Diver represents the financially secure middle class in America - able to meet their needs but not in a position to spend money like Nicole does. She indulges in extravagant purchases and buys things she doesn't need as gifts for her friends.Dick felt a contradiction between the Divers' increasing affluence and the necessity of flaunting it. He sensed that he was restricted by Nicole's wealth and consistently attempted to assert his autonomy from it. In the early stages of their relationship, he provided for them solely on his modest income. Nevertheless, the Warren family undermined his independence by purchasing a clinic in Zurich for the Divers, as a means to protect Nicole. Nicole aspires to possess Dick and one method she employs is her financial resources. Consequently, Nicole's desire to control him encouraged any negligence on his part.

People are drawn to the Divers because of their wealth, like Franz Gregorovious and his plans for the clinic. Dick doesn't have a problem with money and wealth, but he feels trapped by Nicole's riches. He had married her for money, even though he was not materialistic. He had never been more confident in himself than when he married Nicole.

However, he has been engulfed like a gigolo and somehow allowed his arsenal to be locked up

in the Warren safety deposit vaults. Despite the fact that both of these men possess substantial amounts of money, granting them the theoretical ability to accomplish or attain anything they desire, neither of them is content. Interestingly, neither of these individuals perceives their wealth as mere material possessions, but rather closely tied to their partners. Fitzgerald does not propose the notion that money brings happiness or can resolve problems, but instead frequently results in more sadness and joy. This sharply contradicts the atmosphere of materialism prevalent in the 1920s and the unhappiness caused by lack of money during the 1930s.

Both Gatsby and Dick are viewed by their peers as fortunate individuals leading exemplary lives, as they are socialites who constantly entertain people and have been blessed with great wealth (lucky Dick, you big stiff). It seems like they have everything one could desire - a lavish house, a vibrant social life, and the ability to support others - but do they truly find fulfillment in these idealized lives? To them, it seems empty and lacking purpose, just an endless sequence of parties and encounters. Gatsby believes that his life will never be complete without Daisy, while Dick's situation is more complex as he grapples with his desire for independence, his wish to cure Nicole, and his fear that a cured Nicole will no longer require him. Dick's inclination to exert control over others reflects his longing for order, as evident in the way he assuredly promised to take care of Rosemary. She also regarded him as a paragon of correctness. Additionally, Dick provided Nicole with a framework to believe in, which ultimately aided in her

recovery. However, Dick's adherence to structure and order stems from a different era and does not align with the disorder and turbulence of a rapidly changing America. It fails to acknowledge the societal disintegration that Fitzgerald witnessed firsthand. Instead, he represents the last hope of a declining class and the extreme culmination of a man who is ultimately destroyed because he cannot keep pace with the changing times.Gatsby's connection with the concept of order is evident in his relationship with Daisy. According to Nick, Gatsby possessed a smile that exuded everlasting reassurance. Gatsby longed to discover a reflection of himself in Daisy, as a means to counter the chaos and disorder that had consumed his life.

The Great Gatsby explores the themes of order and chaos, as seen through Nick's belief in the need for codes of conduct to regulate human behavior. He longs for a world that is uniform and morally vigilant indefinitely. Meanwhile, Gatsby is engrossed in the extravagant parties he orchestrates, demonstrating a lack of control despite his efforts. While Gatsby does not attempt to control his parties, he tightly manages his personal life, defying societal expectations. This is evident in his response to Nick's remark that the past cannot be repeated, to which Gatsby confidently asserts otherwise. Both Gatsby and Divers desire order, despite associating with individuals who embrace disorder, such as Mary Minghetti and Lady Caroline Sibley-Biers. Gatsby's extravagant gatherings serve as a tool for seeking out Daisy rather than attracting random partygoers. Similarly, Dick maintains a friendship with Mary during her marriage to Abe but distances himself when she becomes involved with Lady Caroline. However, when faced with legal troubles,

Mary turns to Dick, the bringer of order amidst chaos, for assistance in resolving their issues.It is fascinating to observe that as Dicks deterioration becomes increasingly evident, his acquaintances become increasingly rebellious, highlighting the collapse of society and Dick himself. Furthermore, it is clear that Dick's downfall is connected to his inability to adapt to this anarchic and chaotic atmosphere. Gatsby and Diver are both admired by their peers for their entertaining qualities. Diver seems to thrive in social situations, effortlessly controlling them, and at the peak of his social success, people eagerly seek his company. According to Mary, Dick had the ability to keep a party vibrant with just a small sentence or remark, effortlessly bringing people together and ensuring their enjoyment of one another's presence. Because of this, he is remembered by many as one of the most refined gatherings of individuals they have ever known, as expressed by Royal Dumphrey: "It's one of the finest memories in my life, the most civilized gathering of people that I have ever known."

His parties were always notable, although it is debatable whether they were civilized. One of the earliest scenes in Tender is the Night depicts a party that culminates in a duel. Additionally, while in Paris, Rosemary remarks that she can now claim to have attended a wild party. However, it is only after the departure of the Divers that these parties devolve into disorder and chaos, highlighting Dick's role as a disrupter. Pleasing others appears to please Dick, but it also exhausts him (one of his most distinctive moods arises from the excitement that consumes everyone, inevitably followed by his own melancholy). Within

the novel, Rosemary is particularly infatuated with the Divers, primarily Dick. She consistently regales her mother, her trusted confidante, about how perfect the Divers are. Tommy safeguards them against rumors by cautioning Mrs. McKisco not to comment on what occurs in his house. Tommy seems to be the only character willing to protect the Divers, especially Nicole. Despite their extravagant social life, the Divers end up isolated in their personal lives, no longer being seen as leaders within their once-exclusive social circle.

Gatsby, on a different level, is also regarded as a distinguished socialite than the Divers who excelled at intimate gatherings. Gatsby, on the other hand, regularly organized wild and extravagant revelries. While Dick and Nicole were the open and evident hosts, Gatsby remained elusive to the majority of his guests who could hardly identify him. Instead, he assumed the role of a concealed host, an observer of the festivity he provided, always in search of something or someone. The enigma surrounding Gatsby's past gives rise to various theories - some speculate him to be a German spy, while others believe he has committed murder.

However, Gatsby's entertainment serves a purpose - he is relentlessly searching for Daisy, the driving force behind his actions. Both Diver and Gatsby share a commonality in being entertainers who bring happiness to others through their parties. Despite their seemingly social lives, they are both isolated and lacking in true friendships. Gatsby and Diver are both heavily involved in social activities, albeit in a withdrawn manner. Unfortunately, Dick's excessive fondness for partying, among other reasons, ultimately leads to his downfall due to alcoholism. While there are mentions of outrageous behavior at

Gatsby's parties, it would be unjust to view these novels solely as cautionary tales about the dangers of excessive drinking and socializing.

Although Fitzgerald criticized the society of his time, his writing encompassed more than just alcohol and the foolish critics often associated with it. The downfall of Divers and Gatsby is rooted in a loss of control and shattered dreams rather than excessive parties. Dreams, hope, and romance are significant aspects of both Gatsby and Diver's personalities. Gatsby possessed an exceptional ability to hope, which Fitzgerald believes sets him apart from his society. Gatsby held ideals and had a dream that consumed his entire life. While Daisy is his immediate goal, Gatsby's dreams and aspirations extend beyond her and everything else, as Nick observes. Daisy wouldn't satisfy Gatsby; he realized that when he kissed her, his mind would never again soar like the mind of God. Gatsby is always dreaming, but more importantly, he actively strives for something better, whether it be Daisy or something less tangible. This drive sets him apart from the indifferent attitudes of Daisy, Tom, and Jordan, who seem bored with their lives and their sophistication. Perhaps it is this dreamer-like quality that leads Nick to deem Gatsby great. Similarly, Dick also possesses ambition and drive, but somehow veers off course and fails to achieve greatness.Dick is both intelligent and highly regarded as a brilliant psychologist. However, his career takes a downward turn when he becomes involved in a love affair with his patient, Nicole. Despite his efforts to help her, Dick becomes trapped in a dream that ultimately leads to his own downfall. While he shares some hopes with others,

such as wanting to be good, kind, brave, and wise, societal corruption makes it difficult for him to fulfill these aspirations. He also longs for love and acceptance, but feels unloved by Nicole. This sense of not being good enough according to his own standards contrasts with Gatsby's unwavering determination to achieve his dreams. Nevertheless, like Gatsby, Dick is a romantic at heart, even if he cannot change the inevitable outcome. Unlike his peers and society, Diver lacks the same naive optimism and idealism displayed by Gatsby.Gatsby and Diver share similar romanticism and ideals, illustrating the futility of such aspirations in a corrupt and materialistic society. Gatsby's dream centers around being with Daisy, marrying her, and spending their lives together. His deep love for her propels him forward. Many view The Great Gatsby as a tragic love story. However, Gatsby envisions a life with Daisy that existed prior to the war. Both Gatsby and Daisy have undergone changes since then. In Gatsby's mind, Daisy has transformed into an idealized woman who cannot live up to his expectations, through no fault of her own. Unfortunately, Daisy is now with someone else, making their situation complex. Gatsby fails to comprehend this complexity and believes Daisy never loved her husband, Tom. This flawed perspective impacts his relationship with Daisy and fuels his confrontations with Tom. Gatsby's dominant yet childish and naive nature causes him to suggest that Daisy never loved Tom. This misguided notion tarnishes Daisy's feelings for him and exposes her vulnerability, allowing Tom to exploit the mystery surrounding Gatsby's past. By bringing up Gatsby's business dealings, Tom leverages this weakness to ultimately separate Gatsby from Daisy.Gatsby

is aware of the impact of these revelations, particularly in the way that it made him appear as if he had committed a murder. As for herself, she was becoming more withdrawn.

Gatsby's dream has harshly come to an end, marking the pivotal moment where his rapid descent towards death commences. His unwavering focus is placed on his love for Daisy and the potential of their relationship.

Although both Gatsby and Diver have dysfunctional relationships that lead to their downfall, they express their love differently. While Gatsby idolizes Daisy, Dick creates Nicole as her psychologist and takes pleasure in her progress. However, his control over her deteriorates as she becomes independent and eventually leaves. The power dynamics in their relationship were unbalanced, with Dick controlling Nicole's mind through psychology while she controlled his life through money. This imbalance adds a disturbing element to their marriage. Additionally, the dual roles of husband and healer that Dick plays become increasingly paralyzing to him. Despite his past brilliance as a psychiatrist, neither his love nor his academic expertise can help Nicole in her situation.The excessive burden caused by her has taken a toll on him, and it is undeniably true when she mentions that sometimes she believes she is responsible for ruining him. It is noteworthy that Dick, an exceptional psychiatrist, selectively opts for Nicole, a patient.

Dick realizes the complications of the situation, despite her obvious beauty and charm. This leads to the question of why he let himself marry Nicole, as the difficulty of his role is evident. The answer seems to lie in Dick's inherent love of order and his need for control, whether it be in parties,

patients, or his own marriage. The irony lies in the fact that Dick does not control Nicole but rather Nicole controls him, with her illness that he must tend to and her money that he relies on. Both Dick and Gatsby meet tragic endings that are closely tied to their failed love. Neither of them manages to survive in Fitzgerald's portrayed world. Additionally, both lose their dignity to some degree, with Gatsby being found lying in a swimming pool and having an unattended funeral, while Dick fades into obscurity as a general practitioner in New York State without ever truly settling down. When comparing these two endings, it appears that Gatsby's ending lacks more dignity, with his house being defaced and his presence in a swimming pool, but this is only a short-term view. Fitzgerald does not leave us with this image alone but instead ends with the grand vision of the future and the boats moving against the current, endlessly returning to the past.Gatsby remains loyal to his friends, leaving behind not only a strong legacy but also a lasting impression on Nick Carraway, who felt compelled to write about him. Despite his demise, Gatsby's spirit remains intact, as his dream was so within reach that he could not have possibly missed it.

Despite Gatsby's apparent limitless hope, he was aware that he had lost Daisy. Yet, he may not have fully comprehended the magnitude of his loss. The tragic end of Gatsby's life was a result of seeking revenge for Myrtille Wilson's death. However, it was Daisy who caused her demise, not Gatsby himself. His profound love for Daisy ultimately led to his own

demise, and he perished with his dream. On the other hand, Diver, in Fitzgerald's novel, does not meet death but rather faces near entrapment. He not only loses his wife, fortune, and reputation but also abandons his life in the Riviera to move forward alone. Although it seems that Tommy was responsible for alienating Diver, it is evident that his relationship with Nicole had already come to an end before Tommy influenced Dick's actions. The legal case against Doctor Diver concluded, and he was free. This represents a complete social downfall, transitioning from the height of society to being ridiculed and rejected as a dissipated doctor who is unwelcome anywhere. Comparing the social falls of Diver and Gatsby reveals interesting differences in terms of dignity and heroism. A crucial aspect to consider is the element of control. Gatsby lacked control over the car that killed Mrs. Wilson and Mr. Wilson himself, who fatally shot Gatsby in return. Therefore, one could argue that events were responsible for Gatsby's demise rather than any active role played by himself. While it is true that Gatsby should not have allowed Daisy to drive, how could he have anticipated the tragic sequence of events that unfolded?The significance of the timing of Gatsby's demise is also noteworthy - it transpires within a mere twenty-four hours, starting with Daisy confessing her love for Tom and Tom exposing Gatsby's past, and ending with Mr. Wilson shooting Gatsby. This compact time frame further reinforces the idea that Gatsby cannot be held accountable for his own death, although Dick can to some extent be blamed for his downfall. In Tender is the Night, towards the

end of Book Two, it becomes evident that Dick is losing control over himself and the events unfolding around him after learning of his father's death. He encounters Rosemary and the McKiscos on a ship, where Rosemary remarks, "oh, such a shame."

What is the meaning of it all anyway? Why bring it to me? Diver responds by saying that he feels like the bringer of death. It seems that he no longer brings happiness to people. This conversation reveals that even Diver himself is aware of his diminishing skills, but there is a sense of confusion within him. He doesn't even know what to do about it. Diver is finally being tested and failing. One of his main issues is his excessive drinking, which becomes increasingly noticeable to people like Franz Gregory and Tommy. Tommy believes that Diver should not drink. Initially, Diver's drinking started as a social activity, but it grows and takes control over him. Due to his failures in his social life, career, and with Nicole, Diver drinks more and more. However, he doesn't feel like he is out of control (he blamed himself only for indiscretions).

It is the incident involving Morris accusing Dr Diver of drinking while on duty that ultimately ends Dick's psychiatric career, but even after this event, Dick continues to excessively drink alongside Nicole on the Riviera. Alcohol symbolizes a world that Dick cannot control but still desires to be a part of. Society progresses and evolves, while Dick struggles to keep up. Fitzgerald uses alcohol as a device to emphasize Dick's downfall and its underlying connections with society. As he loses faith in himself, Nicole, and society

in general, Dick turns to alcohol. This loss of faith causes Diver to fade away into nothingness and vanish from view. Our final image of him is blurred and distant, gradually disappearing. He has transitioned from a position of societal prominence to a dropout in a society where wealth, alcohol, and excessive behavior are the norm, but he cannot keep pace. Gatsby and Diver inhabit rapidly changing and chaotic societies where morals are compromised and ideals shattered. Fitzgerald does not portray either man as an obvious hero since they both possess numerous flaws, yet it is reasonable to argue that they are heroes despite their drawbacks. Both characters represent romantics in an unromantic world. They are viewed as old-fashioned in an America swiftly evolving.Fitzgerald, however, portrays the other characters in a more negative light, suggesting that he admires these characteristics. Additionally, the only other character who could be considered heroic in Fitzgerald's novels is Nick Carraway, not Gatsby. Nevertheless, Carraway recognizes Gatsby's greatness due to his exceptional ability to hope. This hope distinguishes Gatsby from everyone else Carraway has ever encountered. Despite representing everything that Carraway despises, Gatsby's hope remains the most prominent and absolute. Although Gatsby cannot be seen as morally heroic because of his involvement with bootlegging and unscrupulous characters, and his ulterior motives for befriending Nick and Jordan, we still believe in Gatsby's character because of his capacity for hope and love. Moreover, Gatsby's transformation from a nobody to a millionaire epitomizes the American Dream, which is admirable. However, Fitzgerald also acknowledges the existence of social classes in America, and despite Gatsby's newfound wealth, he will never truly belong to the society

in which he lives.Like Gatsby, Diver is an outsider who is affected by the society he lives in. Despite having heroic qualities, Diver lacks the strength of character to resist being pulled down by societal pressures. Nevertheless, Diver is fundamentally a decent person who desires to please others, help, and love, which are admirable qualities. In Tender is the Night, Fitzgerald portrays a novel where the best character or hero is undermined by the overwhelming influence of society. This degradation results in a distortion of Diver's true self, making him a mere shadow of his former self. While he struggles against these changes, he eventually succumbs to them. Unlike Gatsby, Diver is not as heroic, and Fitzgerald purposely presents him as inferior because he lacks Gatsby's hope. Seeing his defeat, Diver lacks the determination to fully recover. However, this apparent lack of willpower can also be seen as a reflection of how profoundly society has impacted Diver's character. Gatsby can be viewed as great while Dick falls short of this acclaim and instead represents a good man who has been shattered.Gatsby, with all his powers of hope and dreams, can be seen as an unfortunate man, but there is also the idea that Gatsby can be perceived as more than a character, but as a symbol of America. Fitzgerald originally wanted to call the book Under the Red, White and Blue, bringing in the definitive image of the American flag. Certainly, Fitzgerald is very concerned with the state of America within his novel, and I think that Gatsby himself represents American ideals under a great amount of pressure from changing times. America is said to

be a classless society, yet Fitzgerald shows a world of many class distinctions, highlighted by the differences between Tom Buchanan and George Wilson. Gatsby can never be at ease with Tom either, because of the divisions of class between them, despite living in the New World, where every man is equal. Fitzgerald realizes that despite the U.S's supposed self-assurance, she still looks East toward Europe for approval. This is symbolized by the shirts that Gatsby has imported, and his Rolls Royce, both of which are seen as symbols of quality and wealth. Post-war America cannot remove the influence that Europe has, and create her own society. Europe features even more strongly in Tender is the Night.The Divers reside in Switzerland and France, and while it is difficult to observe whether Dick represents America as a whole, the novel possesses an American theme, focusing on American individuals and ideals. Occasionally, the book satirizes Americans abroad who lack the same composure Europeans seem to possess, although Diver himself believes in America (Dick believes in America). In Tender is the Night, Fitzgerald explores the role of Americans living abroad and implies that during this particular era, Americans are not prepared to live in Europe yet. They lack the necessary confidence and self-assurance to feel comfortable outside their own environment and often become disoriented or lose control. Europe has a distinct way of life compared to America and requires different attitudes. Fitzgerald acknowledges that the American mindset does not align with European lifestyles. Additionally, it is worth noting that many psychiatric patients come to Europe seeking treatment, indicating that America still seeks reassurance and care from Europe despite its

military triumphs during the war. Although America may be larger and more powerful than Europe, Europe is still regarded as more sophisticated and refined, and the migration of American culture to Europe only results in chaos and disorder. The American Dream also plays a prominent role in The Great Gatsby.There are two perspectives on the American Dream. Firstly, it symbolizes the boundless opportunities and meaning of America, unrestricted by past experiences. Secondly, it associates one's self-worth with wealth, implying that freedom and possibilities are exclusively obtained through monetary means.

Gatsby appears to strive for both concepts, but it is his conviction in the first one that makes him exceptional. Gatsby has attempted to recreate himself and has left behind his previous life, much like how America has endeavored to detach from her European history and impact.

Fitzgerald expresses his concept of the two interpretations of the American Dream in a paradoxical manner, highlighting how Gatsby's attainment of material success ultimately undermines his faith in the ideal. By presenting America and the American Dream in this manner, Fitzgerald reveals his diminishing belief in his country and its values. Similarly, Diver represents the middle-class American who achieves wealth but struggles to find his place within a society characterized by clear class divisions. Despite Diver's hard work and talent, he fails to succeed in life as prescribed by the American ideal. His eventual riches do not stem from his diligence, but rather from becoming less invested in his job due to marriage. As a result, he becomes adrift because he never truly believed in the ideal.

Once again, Fitzgerald emphasizes the significance of faith and hope in the context of America

and the American Dream. These elements are essential for survival, as without them, both America and the American Dream become meaningless. Both Diver and Gatsby can be viewed as failures in achieving the American Dream, revealing that the America that was envisioned as a land of limitless possibilities, where freedom and liberty prevail, is failing itself. F. Scott Fitzgerald presents Jay Gatsby and Dick Diver as two men who should not fail; if there is any justice in the world, they should succeed in their pursuits. However, they do not. Although they are not flawless, they possess more heroic and noble qualities than the other characters around them. Their inability to endure stems from their adherence to old-fashioned, romantic ideals and their destruction at the hands of the callousness and shallowness of modern America. Fitzgerald paints a rather unsettling portrayal of his homeland, with these two novels reflecting his personal apprehensions about American society. Tender is the Night and The Great Gatsby capture the prevailing mood of that era, with Gatsby and Diver unable to keep pace.

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