There seems to be cases few and far between of people helping others simply for the latter’s benefit. F. Scott Fitzgerald seems to demonstrate this notion in his short story, Jacob’s Ladder, and how ambition can morph personas as situations change, especially when the leader becomes the underdog. The story begins with the protagonist, Jacob, seeing the ethereal Jenny and with his businesslike attitude; he creates opportunity for both Jenny and himself:
“You are the most beautiful thing I have ever seen…tomorrow I’m going to arrange a meeting between you and Billy Farrelly, who’s directing a picture on Long Island.” (Fitzgerald 2-3)
Jacob’s indifference is both apparent and well received by Jenny, where when he admits she is “not [his] type”
“You are the most beautiful thing I have ever seen…tomorrow I’m going to arrange a meeting between you and Billy Farrelly, who’s directing a picture on Long Island.” (Fitzgerald 2-3)
Jacob’s indifference is both apparent and well received by Jenny, where when he admits she is “not [his] type”