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What types of love are depicted in "The Great Gatsby", particularly in the relationships of Wilson and Gatsby?

Quick answer:

The novel depicts various types of love, often portraying them as unhealthy or misguided. Gatsby's love for Daisy is obsessive, as shown by his extravagant gestures, like buying a house near hers. This raises questions about whether he loves Daisy or the idea of her. Many characters mistake physical attraction or material wealth for love, and relationships often involve affairs or abuse. Genuine understanding of love seems absent, except possibly for Nick Carraway.

Expert Answers

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The love of money is the most prevalent in the novel. It shows how shallow and immoral the rich can be. Physical attraction isn't love, but it's used in the book. Gatsby's obsessive love for Daisy is shown throughout, especially when he buys a house across from hers. For the most part, the love shown in the novel is unhealthy and sick. Some have an illusion of what love is, while others show their "love" in an abusive way or by having affairs with others outside of marriage. Does Gatsby really love Daisy, or is he in love with what she represents? I don't know that any of the characters, except maybe for Nick Carraway, have any idea of what love is.

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