

100 years of The Great Gatsby
May 5, 2025
Sarah Churchwell, Professor of American Literature, and Erica Wagner, an insightful critic and editor, dive into the enduring relevance of The Great Gatsby. They explore how Fitzgerald's novel reflects the complexities of the American dream and social classes. With a focus on the Roaring Twenties, they discuss how the historical context shaped Gatsby's narrative. Their analysis reveals the interplay between realism and symbolism, drawing parallels between Gatsby's ambitions and modern political figures. This conversation highlights why this classic still captivates readers today.
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Erica Wagner's Gatsby Reading
- Erica Wagner reads a vivid passage introducing Jay Gatsby, capturing the novel's evocative setting and mystery.
- This passage shows the novel's concise yet powerful language and the early intrigue around Gatsby.
Fitzgerald's Artistic Pivot
- Fitzgerald wrote The Great Gatsby aiming to be a great artist after a string of commercial works and failures.
- The novel was written in Europe in eight months while living cheaply, and published amid misunderstanding.
1920s New York's Transformation
- 1920s New York was a boom era with wealthy elites and changing urban landscapes influenced by figures like Robert Moses.
- The novel captures this tension between old and new money and modern urban development highlighting car culture and infrastructure.