Chapter Three pages 39-59
In chapter three we continue to learn more about Gatsby. He regularly throws lavish parties at his house, where there is tons of food, a band, and alcohol. Nick is invited and at the party he runs into Jordan, and her friend, Lucille. Nick and Jordan are on a mission to find the Gatsby at his party, however they first encounter a drunkard. Nick begins a conversation with a familiar looking man. Nick uncovers that he and the man both fought in the war, this man is Jay Gatsby. Gatsby talked to Jordan in private, and Nick helped "Owl Eyes" out of a car accident. At the end of the chapter, Nick is going out with Jordan.
"Owl Eyes"
"A stout, middle-aged man, with enormous owl-eyed spectacles, was sitting somewhat drunk on the edge of a great table, staring with unsteady concentration the shelves of books. As we entered he wheeled excitedly around and examined Jordan from head to foot" (Page 45 Fitzgerald)
-A Drunkard
-Wise
In this chapter we are introduced to the character of "Owl Eyes". He is someone who shows up to a party for his self benefit. Owl Eyes is drunk throughout this chapter however he does give the reader good insight. He states that Gatsby's life might be a big show, that even the library where he is at, is fake. Even though Owl Eyes is drunk, I feel that he is actually a smart man. Fitzgerald makes a point to say they are owl rimmed glasses, glasses as a sign of insight, or intelligence. Also, there can be a correlation between him and the billboard's Doctor T. J. Eckleburg, that Owl Eyes is like a God who watches over others, and sees what they do.
"Every one suspects himself of at least one of the cardinal virtues, and this is mine: I am one of the few honest people that I have ever known." (Page 59 Fitzgerald)
As I was reading this chapter, and this was the last line, it really jumped out at me. For Fitzgerald to put this at the end, means he made a point to say it. All that Nick has learned, is it a lie? Was his father right in telling him that he should not judge others? But, his other point is to say that everyone does have good in them, his is just honesty. He believes he is honest, and by him telling the reader that we can rely on him a little more. Lastly, this can bring up the debate, are people internally good or bad? We can clearly see what Nick believes.
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