My general understanding of Deconstructive Criticism is to study what is the "accepted" interpretation and then prove how it contradicts itself, using binary opposition. The critique of Gatsby further instilled this understanding, showing the "text's own ambivalence toward the binary oppositions on which that ideological project rests: past/present, innocence/decadence, and West/East." (266) The point of the essay was to show that the common interpretation of the text's "condemnation of American decadence in the 192os..." (267) is actually untrue; that the text actually recommends the decadence.
This critique did not change my perspective of the book. To me, Gatsby did not have one set interpretation. I had noticed before Nick's childlike awe of the East's decadence, and how he seems in a way "obsessed" with their culture. Also,through my eyes, the characterization of Gatsby showed both sides of the binary opposition as well.
What I wonder is why this criticism is so far back in the book. Christie mentioned in class how the criticisms are put in order by most approachable to least, but is it not human nature to disagree sometime with the popular decision, at least for some? It seems much more approachable than parts of the other criticisms at least. Other opinions?
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