From reading the novel we know that Jay Gatsby has this blurred background and he seems to be something of a big question mark. That being said, people are drawn to him, but why?
Is being mysterious something we are drawn too? Because in a way we find it exciting. I, myself think that is a big part of what makes him so fascinating and why people were drawn to him. When reading the book, we know that many came to his lavish parties that he would throw and many of them had never even met him, but going to his parties were this grand and desired thing to do. He was a very “hot topic” to be involved with, whether that be being acquainted with him or just being at his parties.
Even though many people filled his home during these parties, no one really knew him. A lot of what was said about him was pure gossip. “It was testimony to the romantic speculation [Gatsby] inspired that there were whispers about him from those who had found little that it was necessary to whisper about in this world.” (Fitzgerald). Whether we like to admit it or not, I think that we as humans like this sort of thing, and that being the mysterious allure of someone.
The fact that no one really knew Gatsby but would share tid bits of gossip enriched information with others just so they could talk about him says a lot. I believe that this was a big factor in making him so popular. He had this trail of unanswered questions, that made him more appealing, leaving people wanting to be in his world.
What do you think? If Gatsby hadn’t had this mysterious life, do you think he would have been so popular? Because if you ask me, I don’t think he would have been as popular as he was. I believe that is what made him fascinating and created this allure. All the gossip that followed him and left people wondering just who exactly he was, created this big interest in him and made people want to be in his world just for the status that it gave them.
