2. The Great Gatsby: A three level reading introduction

3. F. Scott Fitzgerald His use of language Your interpretation A view of human nature

4. Levels of Reading Literal: What are the author’s words? Inferential: What is the meaning behind those words? Applied: How might this apply to me or to people in general?

5. “In my younger and more vulnerable years...” (Fitzgerald’s words) A father’s advice A son’s reserve to pass judgment Unsought confidences

6. “In my younger and more vulnerable years..” (interpretive) The narrator was close with his father. People confided in the narrator because they felt safe from judgment. Few of the confidences were totally revealing. The narrator feels just a bit superior about his sensitivity towards others.

7. “In my younger and more vulnerable years.. “ (applied) We are influenced by our parents more than we care to admit. People feel a great need to reveal their inner secrets (no matter how lame) to those they trust. Reserving judgment allows us to see others more clearly. There are “haves” and “have nots” in a variety of ways in this world.

8. “My family have been prominent, well-to-do people.. “ p. 2 (interpretive?) The Carraways have enhanced their family history.

9. “My family have been prominent, well-to-do people.. “ (applied) Families have been enhancing their bloodlines and pedigree (for the sake of status) throughout history.

10. “Her husband, among various physical accomplishments..” p.6 (inferences) He was never able to recreate the glory of his college years. Even with all his money, Tom couldn’t find fulfillment. Tom is a very selfish person who hasn’t grown up.

11. “Her husband, among various physical accomplishments..” (applied) You can’t relive the past. Concentrate on yesterday and you’ll lose today. Selfish pursuits seldom deliver fulfillment.

12. “She laughed again, as if she said something very witty..” p. 9 (inferences) Daisy made people feel they were special. Daisy was vivacious, full of life. There was an aura of excitement, yet mystery and even sadness about Daisy.

13. “She laughed again, as if she said something very witty.. “ (applied) Go out of your way to pay special attention to someone and they’ll never forget you. Some people are exciting to be with even when little is actually happening.

14. The importance of visualizing: “ We walked through a high hallway into a brightly colored space..“ p. 8

15. In summation: Read and appreciate F. Scott Fitzgerald’s use of language. Think on different levels (interact). Visualize (interact). Don’t just read, but experience good literature!