Lecture Notes: The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald - Chapter Five
Setting and Initial Scene
The narrator returns to West Egg and observes Gatsby's house lit up brightly, assuming there's a party.
Gatsby approaches the narrator with an eagerness and suggests going to Coney Island or swimming.
Conversation turns to arranging a meeting between Daisy and Gatsby at the narrator's house.
Arranging the Meeting
Gatsby and the narrator discuss inviting Daisy for tea, with Gatsby showing eagerness but also hesitation regarding the details (like cutting the grass).
Gatsby subtly offers the narrator a business opportunity, which the narrator declines.
Daisy is invited over for tea, with instructions not to bring Tom.
Preparations for Daisy's Visit
Gatsby sends someone to cut the narrator's grass and a greenhouse worth of flowers is delivered.
Gatsby arrives at the narrator's house in a white flannel suit, appearing nervous and sleep-deprived.
The Meeting
Daisy arrives in the rain, initially there is awkwardness between her and Gatsby.
Gatsby is nervous, knocking over a clock symbolizing the passage of time since they last met.
Daisy and Gatsby’s initial conversation is awkward, but as they have tea, the tension begins to ease.
Emotional Reunion
As the rain stops, Gatsby glows with happiness; Daisy is emotionally touched and cries over Gatsby's shirts.
Gatsby shows Daisy around his house, revealing his wealth and status.
The green light on Daisy’s dock loses its significance now that Daisy is present.
Reflections on Gatsby's Dream
The narrator reflects on Gatsby's dream and its realization, noting the possible gaps between reality and Gatsby's idealized vision of Daisy.
Despite the initial awkwardness, Gatsby and Daisy seem to find a renewed connection.
Closing Scenes
Gatsby's world is illuminated, both literally and figuratively, by Daisy's presence.
The chapter ends with Gatsby and Daisy left together as the narrator departs, sensing a profound change in Gatsby.
Additional Details
The chapter highlights Gatsby's nervousness and his attempt to impress Daisy.
The narrative suggests a transformation in Gatsby upon Daisy's arrival, moving from tension to happiness.
Daisy's emotional reaction to Gatsby's wealth signifies a complex mix of regret and admiration.
Conclusion
The chapter explores themes of nostalgia, dreams versus reality, and the passage of time.
The narrator observes Gatsby’s deep emotional investment in Daisy, which might not meet the reality of who Daisy is.
Gatsby and Daisy's interaction is charged with emotion, serving as a pivotal moment in the novel.