Diction for The Great Gatsby
• Fitzgerald exhibits his rather unusual tone through various types of diction. While at the Buchanan house, Nick refers to Miss Baker likening him to a rose, in which he responded rather tersely “This was untrue. I am not even faintly like a rose…” (14). This soon changes to a passionate tone in which he says “…a stirring warmth flowed from her, as if her heart was trying to come out to you concealed in one of those breathless, thrilling words” (14). This type of diction shows the changing emotions a young person may feel in a completely different location than they are accustomed to, as is the case with Midwestern-American Nick.
• At most times, Fitzgerald uses an advanced, scholarly diction that is rather intelligent, without being convoluted or frustrating. Later at a party, Nick describes Mrs. Wilson with excruciating detail, as he narrates “The intense vitality that had been so remarkable in the garage was converted into impressive hauteur” (30). This diction provides a fervent tone, one that clearly shows what Nick feels and what Fitzgerald intends.
• In an vivacious moment of imagery, the diction Fitzgerald uses denotes a dreamy, relaxed quality that quickly turns sour when Nick narrates “The late afternoon sky bloomed in the window for a moment like the blue honey of the Mediterranean—then the shrill voice of Mrs. McKee called me back into the room” (34). The placid, almost nirvana-like state that Fitzgerald illustrates exhibits a tone of peace, through elegant diction.
I agree that Fitzgerald uses his diction to exemplify his tone. However, I do not think Nick was trying to be rude to Miss Baker in the beginning; he just told her that he was not at all like a rose. I sense to hard feelings in that sentence. Also, I agree that the "blue honey of the Mediterranean" definitely establishes a tone of tranquility.
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