。

4。1。2 The narrator’s relation to the story

An author’s minds and thoughts may be reflected in the work he creates。 Since Fitzgerald applies “impersonality” in his novel, we can see that there is also a quality of impersonality in Nick’s narration。 At the beginning of this novel, Nick tells us straightly that:文献综述

In my younger and more vulnerable years my father gave me some advice that I’ve been turning over in my mind ever since。

“Whenever you feel like criticising anyone,” he told me, “just remember that all people in this world haven’t had the advantages that you’ve had。”

In consequence, I’m inclined to reserve all judgements, (Fitzgerald 3)

The nonjudgmental nature he has obtained from his father is what makes him an impersonal narrator。 Nick is tolerant and a good listener, so the description he gives of each event and character is quite impartial。 Readers can hardly find a fluctuation of emotions in his narration。 He deliberately keeps a distance from other characters, even when he is involved in everything。 One of the obvious instances is in chapter II:

We backed up to a grey old man who bore an absurd resemblance to John D。 Rockefeller。 In a basket swung from his neck cowered a dozen very recent puppies of an indeterminate breed。