The Great Gatsby - Chapter Seven

Gatsby's House and Staff Changes

• Gatsby's house goes dark one Saturday night, signaling the end of his "Trimalchio"-like career.
• Gatsby dismisses his servants and replaces them with people who won't gossip because Daisy visits often in the afternoons.

Nick Carraway's Visit

• Nick visits Gatsby's house to check on him.
• An unfamiliar butler rudely greets Nick.
• Gatsby assures Nick over the phone that he's not sick and explains the new servants.

Lunch at Daisy's House

• Gatsby calls Nick, inviting him to lunch at Daisy's place.
• Daisy also phones Nick, relieved that he is coming.
• The next day is extremely hot as Nick travels to Daisy’s home.
• At Daisy's house, they find Tom, Jordan, Daisy, and Gatsby.

Tension and Revelations

• There is tension as Tom is aware of Daisy's affair with Gatsby.
• Tom receives a phone call, presumably from his mistress.
• Daisy openly shows affection for Gatsby, which Tom notices.

Trip to New York

• To escape the heat, they decide to go to New York.
• Tension rises between Tom and Gatsby over Daisy.
• Tom drives Gatsby's car, and Gatsby drives Tom's.

Confrontation at the Plaza Hotel

• In a hotel suite, Tom confronts Gatsby about his background and relationship with Daisy.
• Gatsby insists Daisy never loved Tom and has always loved him.
• Daisy, under pressure, admits she did love Tom once, causing Gatsby distress.

Myrtle's Death

• Myrtle Wilson is killed by a car coming from New York.
• It is revealed that Daisy was driving Gatsby's car at the time.
• Tom, Nick, and Jordan come across the scene after the accident.

Aftermath of the Accident

• Tom comforts George Wilson and claims the yellow car is not Gatsby’s.
• Gatsby reveals to Nick that Daisy was driving but insists he will take the blame.
• Gatsby waits outside Daisy's house to ensure she is alright.

Conclusion

• Nick observes Tom and Daisy conspiring together inside their house.
• Gatsby remains outside, waiting and watching, even as Nick leaves.
• The chapter emphasizes the complex relationships and tensions between the characters, as well as the tragic outcome of Daisy's carelessness.