Page 1: Introduction to The Great Gatsby
The opening page introduces the main characters and setting of The Great Gatsby. Nick Carraway, the narrator, is being treated for alcohol addiction and depression. He frequently mentions a man named Gatsby, who is revealed to be the mysterious millionaire protagonist living in a magnificent villa on Long Island.
Nick moved to New York City in 1922 from the Midwest, seeking the American Dream. He works on Wall Street and initially feels lonely until he meets Jordan Baker, one of the few people who knows Gatsby personally.
Highlight: Gatsby throws extravagant parties every weekend, but nobody seems to know him personally. Rumors about his identity range from him being a prince to a murderer or even a German spy.
The story begins to unfold when Nick receives an invitation to one of Gatsby's legendary parties. At the party, Nick is fascinated by the diverse crowd, from "bizarre young men" to "lightly dressed women" and some of the country's wealthiest individuals.
Quote: "Every weekend his house is full of people, it's really crowded, but nobody knows Gatsby."
This introduction sets the stage for the intrigue and mystery surrounding Jay Gatsby, drawing readers into the glamorous yet enigmatic world of 1920s high society.