The Valley of the Ashes (Julian)

--This is a late post about Chapter 2. Since I have read to the end of the book, I am using some of my knowledge to analyze the content found earlier on--

Introduced in Chapter 2, the Valley of the Ashes is the only setting of poverty in the novel. Unlike social commentaries such as "Hard Times" or "The Jungle," "The Great Gatsby" is not constrained to one social message. Instead, Fitzgerald shares his views on multiple topics. The Valley of the Ashes is a clear example of this: although the novel tends to discuss issues pertaining to the wealthy and benefited, Fitzgerald seems to take a momentary "break" to remind the reader of the side-effects of capitalism. Fitzgerald does not spend too much time in The Valley of the Ashes, however is message is still clear. It's geographic location (between the Eggs and New York City) symbolizes it's unfortunate necessity in order to produce luxurious lifestyles. Furthermore, it's proximity to an area bulging with wealth indicates Fitzgerald's feelings that the moral decay found in industrial working areas is just as present, although less obvious, in that of the homes of the elites. Although concise and simple, the Valley of the Ashes yet another great message in a social commentary filled with ideas and opinions.