Why Is Wealth Important In The Great Gatsby

In a society where everyone is in competition to out-do one another, wealth is highly valued and treasured. For most, the American dream is to be successful enough to raise a family and live comfortably. For some, having wealth means a lavish lifestyle, higher ranking in the community, and a sense of accomplishment and power. When I think of the value of wealth, I am immediately drawn to the movies, “The Wolf of Wall Street” and “The Great Gatsby,” in which Jordan Belfort climbs his way up in the stockbroker business in hopes to make millions and Jay Gatsby uses his millions to try to get the girl of his dreams. They demonstrate this value of wealth by showing off his nice cars, luxurious mansion, and high quality clothing. People use these objects in its materialistic culture to show off this value; they are not only living this American dream, but also going above and beyond. Owning a car is a privilege, but also a symbol of your financial status. As sad as it sounds, a person driving an old, beat-down pickup truck will be viewed “lower” than a person cruising around in a Porsche at valet parking. …show more content…
Demonstrating your wealth is being able to purchase high-end clothing, bags and jewelry. In a job interview, wearing a nice suit says that you are serious about this position. Valuing wealth is being able to dress to your strongest ability for a job interview to make a proper impression. Jordan Belfort shows up to the office in crisp suits with nice watches. Jay Gatsby says, ‘I’ve got a man in England who buys me clothes. He sends over a selection of things at the beginning of each season, spring and fall.’ He took out a pile of shirts and began throwing them, one by one before us, shirts of sheer linen and thick silk and fine flannel.” Wealth is not only having the finest items, but also having multiple of them. It is about both quality and