Chapter 2

In reading this chapter, I came across a few different aspects of Tom's personality that majorly contrast Nicks personality. The two men, Tom and Nick, head towards the garage to meet Myrtle. When they arrive, Tom shows how his slick personality. Even with Myrtle's husband in the same room, Tom is able to tell Myrtle to meet him at the next train stop. Fitzgerald leaves it to the reader to decide whether Tom's ability to do this was due to his stealthy behavior, or due to Mr. Wilson's unawareness. I feel like Tom's poor moral decisions further demonstrate what Fitzgerald is trying to portray through his character. The lack of moral values from people living in east egg is evident. However, the dinner party that Myrtle hosts shows the difference between Tom and Nick. At the party, everyone is very intoxicated. The fight that breaks out between Tom and Myrtle is not only rude in front of their guests, but causes and awkwardness that leads the guests to leave. The book says that Tom breaks Myrtle's nose "with a short deft movement." What a gentleman!
Nick shows an act of kindness when the chapter ends. Nick sees to make sure that Mr. McKee gets home. This generous act greatly contrasts the poor morals of Tom and his behavior at the party. What I think Fitzgerald is showing the reader is that not only are the things that Tom and Myrtle doing during the party inappropriate, but the fact that the part is even taking place is a problem within itself. Tom and Myrtle are both married to other people. Was anyone else struck by the fact that even their friends didn't have a problem with the affair? This event, the dinner party, demonstrates the lack of character or morals between these people.