The American Dream is a passion and sliver of optimism believed by the American people. Although many debate if it is even achievable, there are still many that believe that it’s possible. In F. Scott Fitzgerald’s novel The Great Gatsby, he creates three characters, Jay Gatsby, Daisy, and Tom Buchanan, who reflect upon the idea of the American Dream. The Most notable being Gatsby, who believes in this dream and feels obligated to prove its existence. However, it is clear that not only did he fail, but prove the Dream unachievable.

 

       Throughout the novel the narrator, Nick, constantly refers to Gatsby as “The Son of God.” Although it may sound ridiculous, it makes sense in the context of the story. America is a nation that constantly preaches how it is a country chosen by God, and has a promise that anyone can be whoever they want to be, hence: The American Dream. And even though he was born under unfortunate circumstances, he believed he was chosen by God to prove this dream's existence. And there is a certain character of who that Gatsby believes to be the answer to his God given quest.

 

       Daisy is the character Gatsby is obsessed with and believes to be the answer to what he is trying to prove. Daisy is a woman who only involves herself with men that have money. While Gatsby was fighting in World War 1, she married Tom Buchanan, a man of old money and immense wealth. Her appearance is not only significant to Gatsby’s quest, but as a metaphor of America. To begin, in the context of Gatsby's quest, by getting Daisy it shows and proves that there is no division among whoever you were born as, and thus proving the American Dream. In the context of the story she represents America, and how although it may seem beautiful, it is a trap and lie.

 

       This is proven during the showdown in Tom’s apartment, when Gatsby and Tom argue over who deserves Daisy’s love. Tom attacks and exposes Gatsby’s real identity, illegal business with Wolfsheim, and unfortunate past. And by the end of his point crumbles Gatsby’s passion and belief, saying: “[old-money] are born different,” implying that no matter how hard you try, you will never become like old-money. By the end of the scene, Daisy sides with Tom.

 

       Gatsby believed in the green light and thought it was possible to have it. Although he was born under unfortunate circumstances he still has faith in the American Dream. After meeting Daisy, a metaphor of America in the story, he believed that gaining her love proved the dream’s existence. However when faced with a man of true old-money, had her taken away after she learned of who he truly is. The Great Gatsby is more than a tragedy, but proof that the American Dream is a lie. Gatsby had faith that it wasn't, but whether or not he believed in it, the game was rigged from the start.