The Great GatsbyF. Scott Fitzgerald's timeless novel The Great Gatsby examines several universal and specific themes of the early twentieth century. In James Truslow Adams' 1931 work The Epic of America he defined the myth as "that dream of a land in which life should be better, richer, and fuller for every man, with opportunities for each according to his ability or achievement ". Fitzgerald focuses on the struggle of humans trying to achieve their goals by transcending and recreating the past, Jay Gatsby. Through Fitzgerald's specific use of diction, syntax, and tone, this novel shows that the American dream is unattainable. The diction used in this novel is able to capture the depth of meaning. Fitzgerald's choice of words describes each character and setting in immense detail. “His voice is full of money,” you can see ideas of education, wealth and lavish lifestyle emerging. Fitzgerald also states that Tom's voice had a "touch of paternal contempt", showing that Tom thought of himself as higher and better than others....