When F. Scott Fitzgerald introduced Doctor T.J. Eckleburg’s eyes into his masterpiece, “The Great Gatsby,” it became one of the most iconic and debated symbols in literature. While the blue and gigantic eyes of Doctor T.J. Eckleburg may seem like an interesting decorative element, they actually carry a much deeper meaning.
The eyes of Doctor T.J. Eckleburg represent the eyes of God observing all of the immoral behavior and decadence of the characters in the story. The fact that they are plastered on a billboard suggests that society has replaced spiritual aspirations with materialistic ones, rendering God powerless and irrelevant. This is a commentary on the moral decay and loss of spiritual values in the post-World War I era.
It’s fascinating to note that the eyes of Doctor T.J. Eckleburg are never directly mentioned in the text, but their omnipresence is felt throughout the novel. They are a haunting reminder of the characters’ moral failures and the inevitable doom that awaits them. Understanding the symbolic significance of these eyes provides readers with a deeper appreciation for the power of symbolism in literature and the profound commentary that Fitzgerald was making on American society at the time.
The Symbolism of Eyes in Literature
Throughout literature, eyes have come to symbolize a multitude of things. From representing truth and insight to being a gateway to the soul, the power of eyes in literature cannot be understated. One example of this powerful symbolism can be seen in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s “The Great Gatsby” and the iconic eyes of Doctor T.J. Eckleburg.
The Eyes of Doctor T.J. Eckleburg
The eyes of Doctor T.J. Eckleburg, painted on an old billboard in the valley of ashes, are one of the most recognizable symbols in American literature. While they only make a few appearances throughout the novel, their presence is felt throughout the story. These eyes stand as a haunting reminder of the moral decay and spiritual emptiness of the characters in the novel.
- The eyes are an ever-present reminder of the loss of spiritual values and moral decay of society.
- They also represent the all-seeing eyes of God, a constant presence watching over the characters and their actions.
- The eyes are also seen as a symbol of the ruthless, capitalistic society in which the characters live, which values money and success over everything else.
The eyes of Doctor T.J. Eckleburg serve as a symbol not just in the world of the novel, but for the world at large. They represent the harsh realities of life and the consequences of neglecting our spiritual and moral growth.
The Importance of Symbolism in The Great Gatsby
The Great Gatsby is known for its rich use of symbolism, which adds depth and meaning to the story. One of the most iconic symbols in the novel is Doctor T.J. Eckleburg’s eyes, which hold a significant meaning throughout the text. Here are some explanations of what the eyes of Doctor T.J. Eckleburg symbolize:
- God’s Physical Absence – The eyes of Doctor T.J. Eckleburg are described as being “blue and gigantic — their retinas are one yard high”, and they are painted on an old billboard. This gives a sense of visual grandeur and power, which has often been interpreted as a God-like presence watching over the characters. However, the fact that the eyes are depicted on a billboard suggests that God is not present in the world anymore and instead, capitalism and commercialization have taken over.
- The Illusion of the American Dream – The eyes of Doctor T.J. Eckleburg also represent the empty promises of the American Dream, which is one of the central themes in The Great Gatsby. The billboard featuring the eyes is located in the “valley of ashes”, a desolate and impoverished area where the characters of the novel go to get their fortunes. The eyes seem to overlook this area, which is a grim reminder of the harsh reality of the American Dream.
- Moral and Spiritual Decay – Finally, the eyes of Doctor T.J. Eckleburg represent the moral and spiritual decay of the characters in the novel. The characters are often associated with greed, deception, and corruption, and the eyes seem to be witnessing their actions and judging them accordingly. The eyes also represent the theme of blindness, which is prevalent throughout the novel, as the characters are unable to see the moral consequences of their actions.
In conclusion, the eyes of Doctor T.J. Eckleburg are a powerful symbol in The Great Gatsby, which hold multiple meanings and interpretations. They represent the absence of God, the illusion of the American Dream, and the moral and spiritual decay of the characters. These meanings add depth and richness to the story, making it a classic piece of literature that is still relevant today.
The Role of the Eyes of Doctor T.J. Eckleburg
The eyes of Doctor T.J. Eckleburg hold a significant meaning in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s novel, The Great Gatsby. These eyes are depicted on a billboard overlooking the Valley of Ashes, characterized by their haunting and unblinking presence. The eyes are described as being “blue and gigantic—their retinas are one yard high. They look out of no face, but instead from a pair of enormous yellow spectacles which pass over a non-existent nose” (Fitzgerald, 27).
The eyes of Doctor T.J. Eckleburg symbolize various things throughout the novel, including:
- God-like figure: The eyes symbolize a god-like figure, constantly watching over the characters and their actions. They are a reminder of the moral decay and spiritual emptiness of American society during the Jazz Age.
- The American Dream: The eyes also represent the American Dream, which during the Jazz Age seemed to be more of an illusion and less of a reality. The billboard with the eyes represents the promise of wealth and success, but it never comes to fruition for those living in the Valley of Ashes.
- The Spector of Modernity: The eyes also symbolize the specter of modernity. They represent the new age of consumer culture and the emerging technologies, which were changing American society at the time. The billboard serves as a physical representation of these changes and the resulting disconnection between people and their spiritual selves.
The Eyes as a Symbol of the American Dream
The eyes of Doctor T.J. Eckleburg represent the American Dream in the novel. They are a physical embodiment of the promise of wealth and prosperity that the Dream holds for the characters – Jay Gatsby in particular. Gatsby, a self-made man, is constantly striving to achieve the American Dream, which he defines as achieving wealth and status that will allow him to win back his lost love, Daisy Buchanan. However, as the story unfolds, it becomes clear that the Dream is unattainable, and the promise of the eyes is nothing more than an illusion.
Throughout the novel, the eyes stare down at the characters, acting as a constant reminder of the failure of the American Dream. Fitzgerald uses the eyes to critique the materialistic society of the Jazz Age, where people are consumed by their own desire for wealth and status, rather than focusing on deeper values such as morality and decency.
The Eyes as a Commentary on Modernity
The eyes of Doctor T.J. Eckleburg are also a symbol of modernity in the novel. The billboard with the eyes serves as a physical representation of the changes that were taking place in American society during the Jazz Age. The new consumer culture and emerging technologies were changing the way people were interacting with one another, and the eyes show the disconnection between people and their spiritual selves.
| Symbol | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Eyes | God-like figure, American Dream, specter of modernity |
| Billboard | Lack of moral values, materialistic culture |
| Valley of Ashes | The societal decay, spiritual emptiness |
The eyes represent the hollowness of modern society, where people are consumed by their own desires and are disconnected from their spiritual selves. The disconnection is evident in the novel through various characters, including Gatsby, who is obsessed with acquiring wealth and status, and Tom Buchanan, who embodies the decadence and moral corruption of the Jazz Age.
Overall, the eyes of Doctor T.J. Eckleburg serve as a poignant commentary on American society during the Jazz Age, as well as a reminder of the dangers of consumer culture and the erosion of moral values.
The Significance of the Ash Heap in The Great Gatsby
The ash heap that appears at the edge of the valley of ashes between West Egg and New York City represents both the industrial waste and moral decay that were prevalent during the Jazz Age. It serves as a metaphor for the consequences of the unrestrained capitalism that fueled the economic boom of the time.
- The Ashes Symbolize Decay: In the novel, the valley of ashes encapsulates the moral decay and corruption of the wealthy industrialists. The ash heap itself symbolizes the remains of burned waste, indicating that the wealthy wastefully consume resources with no regard for the consequences.
- A Visual Representation of the Divide Between Classes: The contrast between the wealthy mansions and the ash heap highlights the difference in class between the wealthy and the poor during the Jazz Age. The citizens of the ash heap represent the vast majority of the era’s population who lived in poverty while the wealthy enjoyed their riches.
- The Ash Heap Foreshadows Gatsby’s Tragic Fate: Gatsby’s dream of becoming wealthy and successful is a commentary on the American Dream. However, the ash heap foreshadows Gatsby’s tragic end in trying to achieve his dreams. Ultimately, Gatsby’s wealth and success only brings him emptiness and mistrust.
The use of the ash heap in The Great Gatsby is not only a significant literary device but also serves as a warning of the consequences of unregulated capitalism and the widening gap between the rich and the poor in our modern society.
As Tim Ferriss said, “A person’s success in life can usually be measured by the amount of uncomfortable conversations he or she is willing to have.” Gatsby’s inability to grapple with the harsh realities of the ash heap and the consequences of his actions results in his tragic end.
| Symbolism | Representation |
|---|---|
| Ash Heap | Industrial decay |
| Valley of Ashes | Moral decay |
| Wealthy Mansions | Upper class |
| Poor Citizens | Lower class |
The use of symbolism and metaphor throughout The Great Gatsby emphasize the harsh realities of the American Dream, capitalism and class divides. The ash heap stands as a somber reminder that without responsibility and empathy, the consequences of our actions can be devastating.
The Corrupted American Dream in The Great Gatsby
The eyes of Doctor T.J. Eckleburg are a recurring symbol in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s iconic novel, The Great Gatsby. These eyes are described as “blue and gigantic” and they overlook the Valley of Ashes, a desolate area that lies between West Egg and New York City. Throughout the novel, the eyes of Doctor T.J. Eckleburg are a symbol of many things, including the corruption of the American Dream.
- The Corruption of Wealth
- The Corruption of the Upper Class
- The Corruption of Morals
One of the key themes in The Great Gatsby is the corruption of the American Dream. The idea that anyone can be successful in America is a cornerstone of the American Dream, but this dream has become corrupted in the novel. The eyes of Doctor T.J. Eckleburg are a symbol of this corruption. The Valley of Ashes, where the eyes are located, is a wasted landscape of coal and ash, a place where the poor are forced to scrape out a living. The eyes look down on this landscape without any emotion. They represent the apathy and indifference of the wealthy toward the plight of the poor.
The wealthy characters in the novel are also corrupt. They are selfish, greedy, and immoral. They are not interested in the American Dream unless it benefits them personally. These characters are represented by Tom and Daisy Buchanan, who are members of the upper class. They use their wealth to manipulate and control other people, including Gatsby, whose pursuit of the American Dream is ultimately destroyed by his involvement with them.
The eyes of Doctor T.J. Eckleburg also represent the corruption of morals in the novel. The characters in the novel are not guided by morality, but by their own self-interest. They are willing to do whatever it takes to get what they want, even if it means hurting other people. Gatsby, for example, is willing to lie, cheat, and even commit a crime in order to win back Daisy. The eyes of Doctor T.J. Eckleburg stare down at this moral corruption without judgement or condemnation.
| Symbol | Representation |
|---|---|
| The Eyes of Doctor T.J. Eckleburg | The Corruption of the American Dream |
| The Valley of Ashes | The Wasted Landscape of Poverty |
| The Upper Class | The Selfish, Greedy, and Immoral |
| The Moral Decay | The Lack of Values and Principles |
In conclusion, the eyes of Doctor T.J. Eckleburg are a powerful symbol in The Great Gatsby. They represent the corruption of the American Dream, the apathy of the wealthy, the moral decay of society, and the degradation of the human spirit. Through the eyes of this omnipotent figure, Fitzgerald is able to critique the society of the 1920s and warn against the dangers of unchecked ambition and moral decay.
The Theme of Spiritual and Moral Decay in The Great Gatsby
One of the most prominent symbols in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby is the eyes of Dr. T.J. Eckleburg. Located on a billboard in the Valley of Ashes, these eyes are a haunting reminder of the spiritual and moral decay that permeates the novel. They represent both the omniscient presence of God and the corruption of society, and their symbolism can be examined in several ways, including:
- The loss of spirituality in society
- The theme of God’s absence and lack of morality in the characters
- The hollowness and lack of substance in American culture
The eyes of Doctor T.J. Eckleburg serve as a metaphor for the lack of spirituality and connection with a higher power in society. In The Great Gatsby, the characters are so consumed with materialism and wealth that they have lost touch with their souls and the spiritual realm. The people of the time were obsessed with the concept of becoming rich, thinking that wealth and success were the key to happiness, and the eyes of Doctor T.J. Eckleburg represent the opposite of that.
The eyes also symbolize the theme of God’s absence and the lack of morality in the characters. Throughout the novel, Fitzgerald portrays a world devoid of ethical and moral code, where the characters indulge in drinking, partying, and sex without regard for their own or others’ well-being. The eyes of Dr. T.J. Eckleburg are a constant reminder of the characters’ lack of morality, underscoring the moral decay of a society that has lost its way.
Finally, the eyes represent the hollowness and lack of substance in American culture. The characters are superficial, lacking any true depth or meaningful connections with each other. The eyes of Doctor T.J. Eckleburg, as a symbol of God, emphasize the absence of meaning and purpose in the characters’ lives, and the emptiness of the society in which they live.
| Symbols | Meanings |
|---|---|
| Eckleburg’s Eyes | God’s omniscient presence and the spiritual and moral decay of society |
Overall, the symbolism of the eyes of Dr. T.J. Eckleburg embodies the theme of spiritual and moral decay in The Great Gatsby. The loss of spirituality, the absence of morality, and the hollowness of American society are all represented in the eerie eyes staring out over the valley. The haunting image of these eyes reminds us not only of the decadence of the Roaring Twenties but perhaps also of our current society, where materialism and superficiality are still rampant.
The Characters’ Unfulfilled Desires in The Great Gatsby
The eyes of Doctor T.J. Eckleburg in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s “The Great Gatsby” are one of the most recognizable symbols in literature. They are painted on a billboard and overlook the Valley of Ashes, representing the commercialism and moral decay of society. But beyond this overarching theme, the eyes also hold significance for the characters of the novel in their own personal journeys of unfulfilled desires.
- Gatsby: For Gatsby, the eyes of Eckleburg represent his unattainable desire to have Daisy. He often stands on his balcony staring out at the billboard, as if hoping that by some miracle, Daisy will materialize in front of him. The eyes could also symbolize the eyes of God, watching over his actions and judging him for his past mistakes.
- Tom: Tom, on the other hand, uses the eyes as a way to justify his own extramarital affairs. He claims that the billboard represents the moral decay of society, and that it’s his duty to partake in it in order to prevent himself from becoming too weak.
- Myrtle: Myrtle sees the eyes of Eckleburg as a source of hope. She believes that they are the eyes of her lover, Tom, watching over her and promising her a better life. Of course, this is nothing more than a delusion, and her desires remain unfulfilled.
In addition to the personal interpretations of the characters, the eyes also hold a numerical significance. The number seven is prominently featured in the novel and can be seen in relation to the eyes of Eckleburg. The billboard is described as being a “pair of enormous yellow spectacles which pass over a non-existent nose,” and the number seven is often associated with the color yellow. Additionally, the letter “O,” which makes up the pupils of the eyes, is the fifteenth letter of the alphabet, and 15 divided by 2 (the number of eyes) is 7.5, rounded up to seven.
| Symbol | Number | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Number of letters in Eckleburg | 9 | Represents the nine circles of Hell in Dante’s “Inferno.” |
| Number of billboard eyes | 2 | Represents the duality of human nature and the “eyes” of God watching over society. |
| Number of characters in the novel | 7 | Suggests a sense of completeness, as well as being a lucky number. |
Overall, the eyes of Doctor T.J. Eckleburg symbolize not only the overarching themes of commercialism and decay in society but also the personal desires and struggles of the characters in “The Great Gatsby.” Through its use of numerology and literary symbolism, Fitzgerald weaves a complex and multi-layered narrative that has stood the test of time.
The Theme of Illusion vs. Reality in The Great Gatsby | What Do the Eyes of Dr. T.J. Eckleburg Symbolize?
In F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby, the theme of illusion vs. reality is prominent throughout the novel. The characters’ desires for wealth, status, and love often lead them to live in a world of illusion, where appearances and societal expectations are more important than true feelings and values. One of the most striking symbols of this theme is the billboard with the eyes of Dr. T.J. Eckleburg.
- Dr. T.J. Eckleburg is actually a real person, an optometrist who owned a billboard near Fitzgerald’s home in New York. However, in the novel, the billboard takes on a much deeper meaning.
- The eyes of Dr. T.J. Eckleburg are described as “blue and gigantic,” and they watch over the Valley of Ashes, a desolate area between West Egg and New York City. This symbolizes the idea that there is always someone watching over the characters, who are often living in a world of illusion.
- The eyes can also be seen as a metaphor for God or a higher power, suggesting that the characters’ actions are being judged and that they cannot escape accountability for their actions.
The eyes of Dr. T.J. Eckleburg also represent the divide between illusion and reality. The characters of The Great Gatsby often create illusions about their lives or about their relationships with others. They project an image of themselves that is not necessarily true. This creates a divide between their perceptions of themselves and the reality of their lives.
The Valley of Ashes, where the billboard is located, further symbolizes the illusion vs. reality theme. It is a heavily polluted and impoverished area that is a stark contrast to the extravagant lifestyles of the characters in West Egg and New York City. The Valley of Ashes represents the harsh reality of poverty and unfulfilled dreams that the characters choose to ignore.
| Illusion | Reality |
|---|---|
| The green light on Daisy’s dock that represents Gatsby’s desire for her | Daisy’s actual feelings for Gatsby and her inability to leave her wealthy husband |
| Gatsby’s extravagant parties and wealth | The illegal ways in which Gatsby obtained his fortune and his lack of social status |
| The characters’ idealized version of the American Dream | The harsh reality of class and status divisions and the corruption of the American Dream |
In conclusion, the eyes of Dr. T.J. Eckleburg represent the theme of illusion vs. reality in The Great Gatsby. They symbolize the idea that someone is always watching over the characters and judging them for their actions. The eyes also represent the divide between illusion and reality, which is a major theme throughout the novel. By using this symbol, Fitzgerald emphasizes the dangers of living in a world of illusion and the importance of facing reality.
The Role of Social Class in The Great Gatsby
Social class is a prevalent theme in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby. Throughout the novel, the characters are constantly reminded of their social standing, and their actions reflect this. One of the most prominent symbols of social class in the book is the giant billboard with the eyes of Doctor T.J. Eckleburg.
The eyes of Doctor T.J. Eckleburg are situated on a billboard that overlooks the Valley of the Ashes, a desolate and impoverished area of New York City. The eyes are described as “brooding” and “watchful,” and they seem to stare down on the characters below, almost as if they are judging them. The symbolism of the eyes of Doctor T.J. Eckleburg is multi-faceted, but one of the most important is their representation of the social class divide in the novel.
- The eyes of Doctor T.J. Eckleburg represent the all-seeing gaze of the upper class over the lower class. The characters in the novel are acutely aware of their place in society, and they understand that their actions are being judged by those above them. The eyes of Doctor T.J. Eckleburg serve as a reminder that the wealthy have power and influence over those who are less fortunate.
- The eyes of Doctor T.J. Eckleburg are also a symbol of the spiritual emptiness of the upper class. Throughout the novel, the wealthy characters are depicted as being morally corrupt and driven by their own selfish desires. The eyes of Doctor T.J. Eckleburg are a reminder that their actions have consequences, and that they cannot escape the judgment of a higher power.
- The billboard with the eyes of Doctor T.J. Eckleburg is located in the Valley of the Ashes, a desolate and barren area of the city. This represents the divide between the wealthy and the poor, and serves as a powerful commentary on the unequal distribution of wealth and power in society.
The symbolism of the eyes of Doctor T.J. Eckleburg is further highlighted by the fact that they are associated with a character who is not actually present in the novel. Doctor T.J. Eckleburg is never seen or heard from in the book, yet his presence looms large over the story, serving as a constant reminder of the societal structure that shapes the lives of the characters.
| Symbolism of the Eyes of Doctor T.J. Eckleburg in The Great Gatsby | Interpretation |
|---|---|
| The all-seeing gaze of the upper class over the lower class | The wealthy have power and influence over those who are less fortunate |
| The spiritual emptiness of the upper class | The wealthy are morally corrupt and driven by their own selfish desires |
| The divide between the wealthy and the poor | An unequal distribution of wealth and power in society |
The eyes of Doctor T.J. Eckleburg are a powerful symbol of the social class divide in The Great Gatsby. They represent the all-seeing gaze of the upper class over the lower class, the spiritual emptiness of the wealthy, and the unequal distribution of wealth and power in society. The fact that this symbol is associated with a character who is not actually present in the novel emphasizes the pervasive influence that social class has on the lives of the characters, and serves as a warning against the dangers of unchecked power and privilege.
The Significance of Colour Symbolism in The Great Gatsby
The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald is a novel filled with rich and intricate symbolism that enriches the reading experience. One of the most significant symbols of the novel is the billboard with the eyes of Doctor T.J. Eckleburg. This symbolizes the complexity of the American Dream, and how it has become corrupted due to greed and materialism.
- The Eyes of Doctor T.J. Eckleburg
- The Colour Yellow
- The Colour Green
The eyes of Doctor T.J. Eckleburg are a vital symbol in the novel. Located on a billboard in the Valley of Ashes, these large, faded eyes represent the all-seeing eyes of God. However, as the novel progresses, it becomes clear that these eyes are not simply a representation of God but also a symbol of moral decay. The eyes look down on the world from their perch, watching the corruption and immorality that takes place beneath them. The fact that the eyes are painted on a billboard symbolizes the commercialization of religion and morality.
Another significant symbol in The Great Gatsby is the colour yellow. Yellow is often associated with money, and in this novel, it represents the corruptive force of wealth. The characters in the novel who have an abundance of wealth are often described wearing or surrounded by the colour yellow. This colour symbolizes the corruption and moral decay that is often associated with the pursuit of wealth and material possessions.
The colour green is used throughout the novel to symbolize hope and growth. The green light that Gatsby stares at across the bay is a symbol of his love for Daisy. It represents the dream that he is chasing and the hope that he will one day be united with her. However, the green light can also be seen as a symbol of the corruptive force of the American Dream. Gatsby’s pursuit of Daisy and wealth ultimately leads to his downfall, suggesting that the dream he is chasing is unattainable and full of false promises.
The Great Gatsby is a novel full of complex and meaningful symbolism. The eyes of Doctor T.J. Eckleburg represent the corruption of the American dream, while the colours yellow and green are symbols of the corruptive force of wealth and the hope and growth that is often associated with chasing the American Dream. These symbols work together to create a powerful message about the dangers of materialism and greed.
| Symbol | Representation |
|---|---|
| Eyes of Doctor T.J. Eckleburg | All-seeing eyes of God, commercialization of religion and morality, symbol of moral decay |
| Yellow | Corruptive force of wealth and material possessions |
| Green | Hope, growth, and the corruptive force of the American Dream |
The symbols in The Great Gatsby are significant, and they add depth to the novel. They encourage readers to think critically about the themes of the novel and the impact of the American Dream on society. Ultimately, these symbols create a powerful commentary on the dangers of materialism and greed and the toll they can take on an individual and society as a whole.
FAQs: What do the Eyes of Doctor TJ Eckleburg Symbolize?
1) Who is Doctor TJ Eckleburg?
Doctor TJ Eckleburg is a character in the novel “The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald. He is a prominent figure in the story as his giant billboard with the eyes of God overlooks the Valley of Ashes.
2) What do the eyes of Doctor TJ Eckleburg represent?
The eyes of Doctor TJ Eckleburg represent the all-seeing eyes of God or the eyes of conscience that are always watching over characters in the novel.
3) Why are the eyes of Doctor TJ Eckleburg so significant in the novel?
The eyes of Doctor TJ Eckleburg serve as a constant reminder of moral decay and corruption in society. They also represent the loss of innocence and spiritual bankruptcy of the characters.
4) How do the eyes of Doctor TJ Eckleburg affect the characters in the novel?
The eyes of Doctor TJ Eckleburg serve as a haunting presence that the characters cannot escape from. They constantly remind them of their immoral actions and serve as a warning of the consequences.
5) Do the eyes of Doctor TJ Eckleburg have any religious significance?
Yes, the eyes of Doctor TJ Eckleburg can be interpreted as a representation of God’s eyes, watching over and judging the actions of the characters in the novel.
6) What is the message behind the use of the eyes of Doctor TJ Eckleburg in the novel?
The use of the eyes of Doctor TJ Eckleburg in the novel is a commentary on the corruption of American society in the 1920s and the loss of traditional values.
7) Why is Doctor TJ Eckleburg portrayed as a doctor?
It is unclear why Doctor TJ Eckleburg is portrayed as a doctor in the novel. Some critics suggest that it could be a symbol of society’s reliance on material wealth and the commercialization of medicine.
Closing paragraph: Thanks for reading!
Thank you for taking the time to learn more about what the eyes of Doctor TJ Eckleburg symbolize in “The Great Gatsby.” The use of this symbol is just one of the many ways that F. Scott Fitzgerald provides social commentary on the time period in which the novel was written. If you enjoyed this article, please visit us again for more literary analyses and commentary.