Jay Gatsby Greed Quotes

Greed is a recurring motivational force that drives many of the characters in The Great Gatsby to do regrettable things, especially Jay Gatsby. Although it was never directly mentioned, Jordan Baker has hinted several times that Daisy was Gatsby’s motivation to become rich. His love and willingness to be with Daisy was thoroughly expressed when Jordan said “Gatsby bought that house so Daisy would be just across the bay.” (Fitzgerald 79) and “[… Gatsby] says he’s read a Chicago paper for years just on the chance of catching a glimpse of Daisy’s name.” (80). Jay, knowing Daisy left him for the wealthier Tom Buchanan, does anything he can to get rich as fast as possible. When he finally gets enough money he shows it off by throwing large parties every weekend to get her attention. Even with enough money to get any girl he wants, he still pursues Daisy. Even after reuniting with her and spending so much time trying to get her to leave Tom, only to told she loves Tom too, he still takes the blame for the death of Myrtle; consequently, getting himself …show more content…
Her wealthy background and her marriage to Tom leads Gatsby to believe money was the only way to win her over. The quote “’[Daisy’s] voice is full of money,’ [Gatsby] said suddenly” (Fitzgerald 120) shows how he believes wealth is the key to her heart, and her amazement at Gatsby’s house and nice shirts supports his belief. Before he left he asked her to wait for him to return, she didn’t because Tom had asked her to marry him. This event made Gatsby strive to be wealthy because he knew she loved him and the only thing Tom had that Gatsby didn’t was money. His desperation led him to illegal dealings, likely with Wolfsheim, and illegal alcohol vendors as a front. Ultimately, Daisy’s love of money influences Gatsby to strive for a similar goal, putting him in the middle of dangerous people and illegal