Philip McGowan

In this engaging discussion, Sarah Churchwell, a Professor of American Literature, reveals how Fitzgerald's life influenced Gatsby's themes of obsession and class. Philip McGowan adds insights on the interplay of wealth in the 1920s, while William Blazek highlights the deep emotional conflicts between Gatsby and Daisy. They explore the novel's tragic climax, the blend of humor and tragedy, and the enduring legacy of Fitzgerald's work. Together, they dissect how aspirations and societal decay resonate through Gatsby's story.