Summary
Highlights
Nick Carraway moves to West Egg, Long Island, next to the mysterious Jay Gatsby's mansion. He visits his cousin Daisy Buchanan and her wealthy, obnoxious husband Tom in East Egg, where he observes the unhappiness in their marriage and first glimpses Gatsby's enigmatic presence.
Nick is introduced to Tom's mistress, Myrtle Wilson, who lives in the Valley of Ashes. He attends one of Gatsby's lavish parties, where he finally meets Gatsby and learns about Gatsby's interest in Daisy.
Gatsby tells Nick a fabricated life story, but Jordan Baker later reveals Gatsby's true past: his love for Daisy five years prior, and his accumulation of wealth solely to win her back. Gatsby orchestrates a reunion with Daisy at Nick's cottage.
Gatsby and Daisy reconnect at Nick's house, initially awkwardly, but eventually rekindling their romance. Gatsby then shows Daisy his opulent mansion, revealing the extent of his devotion to her.
Nick learns that Gatsby's real name is James Gats, and he came from humble beginnings. Tom Buchanan becomes suspicious of Gatsby and Daisy's relationship. A tense confrontation occurs at the Plaza Hotel, where Tom exposes Gatsby's criminal dealings, causing Daisy to pull back.
On the drive home from the city, Daisy, driving Gatsby's car, accidentally hits and kills Myrtle Wilson. Gatsby takes the blame for Daisy, while Tom manipulates George Wilson into believing Gatsby was responsible.
George Wilson, seeking revenge for Myrtle's death, tracks down Gatsby and murders him in his swimming pool before taking his own life. Nick is left to organize Gatsby's funeral, which is poorly attended, highlighting the superficiality of Gatsby's acquaintances.
Nick confronts Tom, who admits to telling George Wilson about Gatsby. Nick becomes disillusioned with the carelessness and moral bankruptcy of the wealthy, particularly Tom and Daisy. He breaks up with Jordan and decides to return to the Midwest, reflecting on Gatsby's unattainable dream and the destructive nature of the past.