The Great Gatsby, written by F. Scott Fitzgerald in 1925, is a novel that explores the decadence and excess of the Roaring Twenties. At the heart of the story is the character of Jay Gatsby, a mysterious and wealthy young man who throws lavish parties at his mansion on Long Island. Gatsby's wealth is a source of fascination for the other characters in the novel, particularly the narrator, Nick Carraway.
One of the themes of The Great Gatsby is the corrupting influence of new money. Gatsby, who was born poor, has made his fortune through illegal means, specifically bootlegging and other illegal activities during Prohibition. His wealth is new and untethered to any traditional sources of status or power. This lack of social or cultural capital makes Gatsby an outsider in the world of the wealthy elite, and he is constantly trying to prove himself and gain acceptance.
Gatsby's new money also corrupts the other characters in the novel. Tom Buchanan, a wealthy man with old money, is drawn to Gatsby's parties and lifestyle, even though he knows that Gatsby's wealth is ill-gotten. Tom's mistress, Myrtle Wilson, is also attracted to Gatsby's wealth and glamour, and she is willing to risk her marriage and her life to be with him.
The corrupting influence of new money is also seen in the character of Jordan Baker, a professional golfer and a friend of Nick's. Jordan is attracted to Gatsby's wealth and is willing to lie and cheat to get what she wants. She is also willing to turn a blind eye to Gatsby's illegal activities, as long as it means she can enjoy the benefits of his wealth.
Overall, The Great Gatsby is a cautionary tale about the dangers of new money and the corrupting influence it can have on people's morals and values. The characters in the novel are drawn to Gatsby's wealth and lifestyle, but they ultimately pay a heavy price for their association with him. The novel serves as a reminder that wealth, no matter how it is acquired, can have a corrupting influence on those who seek it.