Why Is Jazz Important In The Great Gatsby

Coined by F. Scott Fitzgerald himself, the Jazz Age was the period that The Great Gatsby was set in. Synonymous to the name “The Roaring Twenties”, the Jazz Age was named for the prevalence of jazz music rather than the wealth of the time. The Jazz Age was an age of prosperity, prohibition, dancing, parties, and robust, lively music. The music that was born during this era was entertaining, refreshing, and it reflected the feelings of the decade as a whole. The Great Gatsby is a novel of unexpected events, animated tempo, and improvisation; all things that are valued in jazz music. However, this novel critiques the values of the Jazz Age itself.
Jazz in The Great Gatsby, is found in one place repeatedly: Jay Gatsby’s mansion. Jay Gatsby throws