Characters & Relationships
Who is the woman insisting they leave at the start of the passage?
Sloane’s lady companion
What does the mention of horses symbolize in contrast to Gatsby’s car?
Horses symbolize old money and tradition, while the car represents new wealth and modernity.
Who says, “My God, I believe the man’s coming,” and why?
Tom says this, shocked that Gatsby doesn’t realize he is unwanted.
What does this passage suggest about the social norms of the 1920s?
The elite were exclusive, and social mobility was difficult despite wealth.
Why does Tom react negatively to Gatsby coming along?
He knows the woman doesn’t actually want Gatsby there and feels Gatsby doesn’t belong
How does this passage highlight the theme of social class divisions?
Gatsby, a self-made man, is subtly excluded by the old-money crowd, showing he will never truly belong.
What does Tom mean by calling Gatsby one of the “crazy fish” that women meet?
He sees Gatsby as an outsider and unworthy of Daisy.
What aspect of the American Dream does Gatsby struggle with in this scene?
Despite his wealth, he is still not accepted by old-money elites.
What does Tom’s line, “By God, I may be old-fashioned in my ideas, but women run around too much these days,” reveal about his character?
He is hypocritical, judgmental, and holds sexist views despite his own infidelity.
Why is Gatsby’s light overcoat and hat an important detail?
It symbolizes his readiness to fit in, yet he is left behind—showing his exclusion.
What does the line "Tell him we couldn’t wait, will you?" reveal about Mr. Sloane and his companion?
They are dismissive and insincere, pretending politeness but really rejecting Gatsby.
How does Tom’s dismissal of Gatsby reflect the divide between “old money” and “new money”?
Tom sees Gatsby as inferior, despite Gatsby’s wealth, because he lacks pedigree and tradition.
What does Gatsby’s lack of awareness in this scene suggest about him?
He is socially naive and doesn’t realize he is being subtly excluded.
How does this passage reinforce the novel’s theme of illusion vs. reality?
Gatsby believes he is being welcomed, but in reality, he is being dismissed.
How does this passage contribute to Tom’s growing suspicion about Gatsby and Daisy?
He begins questioning where Gatsby met Daisy, signaling his growing awareness of their past relationship.
Why is Gatsby’s car an important symbol in the broader context of 1920s America?
It represents new wealth, social mobility, and modernity but also foreshadows tragedy.