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A Green Light
The green light symbolizes Gatsby's unattainable dreams and the hope that remains just out of reach, particularly his desire for Daisy and the American Dream. Its arrival at the dinner would evoke a sense of longing and nostalgia among the guests, particularly Gatsby, possibly casting a bittersweet shadow over the festivities as they reflect on their own dreams and desires. -
An Ad for Dr. TJ Eckleburg
The billboard ad embodies the moral decay of society and the idea of judgment, representing the eyes of God watching over the characters' choices. Introducing this ad at the dinner would generate a tense atmosphere as guests may feel an underlying guilt about their actions and the consequences of their lives, prompting existential discussions that could overshadow the party's lightheartedness. -
A Silk Shirt
The silk shirt symbolizes wealth and social status, highlighting the materialism that defines the lives of the characters, particularly in relation to Daisy's attraction to Gatsby's money. This gift would likely elevate the excitement of the party and spark admiration and envy among the guests, but it might also instigate jealousy or competition, creating a mixed atmosphere of celebration and rivalry. -
A Pearl Necklace
The pearl necklace represents both luxury and the fragility of relationships, as pearls are formed from irritation. Its presence at the dinner could create a nostalgic yet uncomfortable mood, especially for Daisy, as it reminds her of the wealth that surrounds her choices in love, possibly leading to conversations about her past and her current situation, igniting tension between her and Gatsby. -
A Mantle Clock
The mantle clock symbolizes the passage of time and the desire to halt life's inevitable moments, particularly reflecting Gatsby's wish to return to the past with Daisy. This gift would likely inspire a sense of melancholy among the guests, as it serves as a reminder of lost time and missed opportunities, casting a reflective mood over the gathering. -
A Toy Car
The toy car signifies childhood innocence and the dreams that come with youth, emphasizing the stark contrast between innocence and the harsh realities faced by the characters. Its arrival would likely evoke nostalgic feelings, particularly among the older guests, potentially lightening the mood temporarily, but also reminding them of what they have lost over the years, creating an undercurrent of sadness. -
A Puppy
The puppy symbolizes loyalty, companionship, and the hope for new beginnings, as well as the innocence of youth. Its presence could bring a sense of joy and warmth to the dinner, fostering a light-hearted atmosphere and encouraging playful interactions among guests, temporarily distracting them from their more serious concerns. -
A Jar of Ashes
The jar of ashes represents loss, grief, and the inevitable decay that life brings, particularly reflecting on the characters' various failures and the remnants of past lives. This gift would likely dampen the mood significantly, introducing a somber tone as guests confront the reality of mortality and the ghosts of their past decisions, leading to a somber reflection among the attendees.
Gift List
A Green Light
An Ad for Dr. TJ Eckleburg
A Silk Shirt
A Pearl Necklace
A Mantle Clock
A Toy Car
A Puppy
A Jar of Ashes
Instructions
Each character has secretly bought a gift to the party. Each gift is a symbol (a concrete object) that carries great abstract meaning. For each of the gifts, explain the abstract meaning (1-2 sentences) and how the arrival of this gift at the dinner would impact the overall mood (1-2 sentences).
Example: Jay Gatsby has brought a teacup to the party. This teacup is a symbol of a rekindled relationship because he and Daisy met for tea when they first saw each other again. This might make the mood of the party a bit tense when Nick and Daisy see the teacup because they know that this sparked the relationship between Jay and Daisy. For the rest of the party goers, the mood would probably stay the same.
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