1. 1. Describe the "valley of ashes." What does it look like and what does it represent?
“A fantastic farm where ashes grow like wheat into ridges and hills and grotesque
gardens; where ashes take the forms of houses and chimneys and rising smoke and,
finally, with a transcendent effort, of men who move dimly and already crumbling
through the powdery air.” The valley represents moral and social decay of people in
America.
2. Describe Mr. Wilson and Myrtle. Do they seem to fit into the setting?
Maybe they're the scum of society like the “valley of ashes.” Mr. Wilson and Myrtle are
married, but Myrtle is cheating on him with Daisy's husband (forgot his name all of a
sudden). Wilson thinks their marriage is the best ever, but it’s not. They fit into the
setting for how everything is a whirlwind.
3. What more have you learned about Nick in this chapter? Is he similar or different than the
people he spends his time with?
He's not rich and doesn't try to be. Plus everyone in the book seems to be persuaded by
rumors or something, but Nick doesn't go on those.I would say he seems to be different
than the people around him, because he doesn't seem to care about money as much.
4. Describe the violent act Tom committed against Myrtle. What does this reveal about
him?
“Making a short deft movement, Tom Buchanan broke her nose with his open hand.”
It reveals that he doesn't seem to care for Myrtle even though they're having an affair
with each other.