Why Is Tom Attracted To Myrtle

The clinking of champagne glasses, the murmur of illicit conversations, and the palpable tension in the air – these are the hallmarks of the infamous party at Tom and Myrtle Wilson's apartment in The Great Gatsby. But beyond the glittering surface, a darker, more primal force is at play: Tom Buchanan's attraction to Myrtle. It's a question that lingers long after the last notes of jazz have faded: why Myrtle, and what does this volatile relationship reveal about Tom's character and the themes of the novel itself?

Tom's affair with Myrtle Wilson is not a love story; it's a brutal display of power, a rebellion against the constraints of his privileged life, and a manifestation of his deeply flawed character. To understand why Tom is drawn to Myrtle, we must delve into the complexities of his personality, the societal context of the Roaring Twenties, and the symbolic roles that both Tom and Myrtle play in F. Scott Fitzgerald's masterpiece. The attraction is multifaceted, rooted in physical desire, a craving for control, and a yearning for something different from the sterile world he inhabits with Daisy.

The Allure of the Antithesis: Understanding Tom and Myrtle

Tom Buchanan is a man of immense wealth and physical strength, a former football star whose glory days are behind him. He is a product of the old money East Egg society, a world of inherited privilege and rigid social codes. He is married to Daisy, a woman whose beauty and charm are as captivating as her voice is melodic. Yet, beneath the veneer of wealth and social standing lies a man deeply dissatisfied and morally bankrupt. Tom is restless, aggressive, and entitled, driven by a need to dominate and control.

Myrtle Wilson, on the other hand, is the antithesis of Daisy. She is the wife of George Wilson, a struggling mechanic who owns a run-down garage in the Valley of Ashes, a desolate wasteland between West Egg and New York City. Myrtle is full-figured and sensual, with a vibrant energy that contrasts sharply with Daisy's ethereal beauty. She is ambitious and desperate to escape her impoverished circumstances, yearning for a taste of the luxury and excitement that Tom represents.

The Valley of Ashes itself is a crucial symbol in understanding Tom's attraction to Myrtle. It represents the moral and social decay that lies beneath the glittering surface of the Roaring Twenties, a stark contrast to the opulence of West Egg and East Egg. Tom's affair with Myrtle is, in a sense, a descent into this moral wasteland, a rejection of the superficial values of his own social class.

Comprehensive Overview: Deciphering the Roots of Attraction

Several factors contribute to Tom Buchanan's attraction to Myrtle Wilson, each revealing a different facet of his complex and ultimately destructive character:

1. Physical Desire and the Thrill of the Forbidden: Tom is undeniably drawn to Myrtle's physicality. She represents a raw, unrestrained sensuality that is lacking in his relationship with Daisy. Daisy embodies the ideal of the Southern belle – beautiful, charming, and seemingly innocent. Myrtle, however, is openly sexual and assertive, offering Tom a different kind of gratification. This physical attraction is heightened by the illicit nature of their affair. The secrecy and danger involved add an element of excitement and control that appeals to Tom's domineering personality. The forbidden nature of the relationship is a key component of its appeal for Tom; it allows him to break free from the constraints of his social position and indulge his primal urges without consequence.

2. The Illusion of Control: Tom is a man who craves control in all aspects of his life. He dominates Daisy through his physical presence and emotional manipulation, and he seeks to exert the same control over Myrtle. Unlike Daisy, who comes from a similar social background and possesses a degree of independence, Myrtle is vulnerable and dependent on Tom for the luxuries she craves. This power dynamic appeals to Tom's ego, allowing him to feel superior and in control. He provides her with money, a lavish apartment, and the illusion of a better life, reinforcing his sense of dominance. Tom dictates the terms of their relationship, reinforcing his sense of power and control, which is a significant motivator for him.

3. Rebellion Against Societal Constraints: Despite his privileged background, Tom is deeply restless and dissatisfied. He is bored with the superficiality and hypocrisy of the East Egg society, and his affair with Myrtle can be seen as a form of rebellion against these constraints. Myrtle represents a different world, a world of raw emotion and unbridled passion, which offers Tom a temporary escape from the stifling atmosphere of his own social class. However, this rebellion is not born out of genuine empathy or a desire for social change. Instead, it is a selfish pursuit of pleasure and a manifestation of Tom's entitlement. He uses Myrtle as a means to escape his boredom and reaffirm his sense of power, without any regard for her feelings or well-being.

4. Reinforcing Social Hierarchy: Paradoxically, while the affair can be seen as a rebellion against societal norms, it also reinforces the existing social hierarchy. Tom's relationship with Myrtle highlights the vast gulf between the wealthy elite and the working class. He treats her as a possession, flaunting her in public and showering her with expensive gifts, while simultaneously demeaning her behind her back. This reinforces his sense of superiority and reaffirms his position at the top of the social ladder. He sees Myrtle as a disposable object, a temporary distraction from his privileged life, and never intends to offer her any real social mobility or genuine affection.

5. A Reflection of Deeper Dissatisfaction: Tom's attraction to Myrtle is ultimately a symptom of his deeper dissatisfaction with his life. He is unhappy in his marriage to Daisy, despite her beauty and social standing. He is haunted by a sense of emptiness and a yearning for something more, although he is incapable of articulating what that "more" might be. The affair with Myrtle is a desperate attempt to fill this void, to find meaning and excitement in a life that feels increasingly hollow. However, this pursuit of pleasure is ultimately self-destructive, leading to tragedy and further reinforcing Tom's moral bankruptcy. His inability to find fulfillment within the confines of his own social class and marriage drives him to seek fleeting gratification elsewhere, ultimately exacerbating his unhappiness.

Trends and Latest Developments: Examining Tom's Behavior Through a Modern Lens

In contemporary discussions of The Great Gatsby, Tom's behavior is often analyzed through the lens of toxic masculinity and privilege. His treatment of both Daisy and Myrtle is seen as a manifestation of his entitlement and his belief that he can control the women in his life. Modern interpretations emphasize the power imbalance in Tom and Myrtle's relationship and the ways in which Tom exploits Myrtle's vulnerability for his own gratification.

The #MeToo movement has also brought renewed attention to the dynamics of power and consent in relationships, prompting readers to re-evaluate Tom's actions and consider the long-term consequences of his abuse. Critics argue that Tom's violence towards Myrtle, particularly the scene where he breaks her nose, is not simply an isolated incident but a reflection of a deeper pattern of aggression and control. This act of violence underscores the inherent inequality in their relationship and the dangers of unchecked power.

Furthermore, contemporary analyses often explore the intersection of class and gender in The Great Gatsby. Myrtle's desire for a better life is seen as a legitimate aspiration, but her dependence on Tom makes her vulnerable to exploitation. The novel highlights the limited opportunities available to women of Myrtle's social class and the ways in which they are often forced to rely on men for economic security.

Tips and Expert Advice: Navigating the Complexities of Character Analysis

Analyzing complex characters like Tom Buchanan requires careful attention to detail and a nuanced understanding of the historical and social context. Here are some tips for unpacking the motivations behind Tom's attraction to Myrtle:

1. Consider the Historical Context: The Roaring Twenties was a time of significant social and cultural change, marked by economic prosperity, shifting gender roles, and a growing sense of disillusionment with traditional values. Understanding the historical context can shed light on the motivations of the characters and the themes of the novel. For example, the rise of consumerism and the pursuit of wealth are central to the story, and Tom's materialism is a key aspect of his character. The changing social norms and the emergence of the "flapper" also influenced the dynamics between men and women, contributing to the tensions and conflicts depicted in the novel.

2. Analyze the Symbolism: Fitzgerald uses symbolism extensively throughout The Great Gatsby to convey deeper meanings and ideas. The Valley of Ashes, the green light, and Gatsby's mansion are all potent symbols that contribute to the overall message of the novel. Pay attention to the symbolic significance of Myrtle and Daisy, and how they represent different aspects of Tom's desires and values. Myrtle embodies the raw, unbridled sensuality that Tom craves, while Daisy represents the unattainable ideal of wealth and social status. Understanding these symbolic roles is crucial for interpreting Tom's attraction to Myrtle.

3. Examine the Power Dynamics: The power dynamics between Tom and Myrtle are central to their relationship. Consider how Tom uses his wealth and social status to control and manipulate Myrtle, and how Myrtle's vulnerability makes her susceptible to his influence. Analyze the ways in which Tom asserts his dominance, both physically and emotionally, and how Myrtle responds to his control. This examination will reveal the inherent inequality in their relationship and the destructive consequences of unchecked power.

4. Look for Contradictions: Tom Buchanan is a deeply contradictory character. He is both charming and cruel, wealthy and unhappy, privileged and restless. Pay attention to these contradictions, as they reveal the complexities of his personality and the underlying tensions that drive his actions. For example, his desire for control clashes with his yearning for freedom, creating a sense of internal conflict that manifests in his destructive behavior. Recognizing these contradictions is essential for a comprehensive understanding of Tom's character.

5. Question the Narrator: Nick Carraway, the narrator of The Great Gatsby, is not an unbiased observer. He has his own perspectives and biases, which shape his portrayal of the characters and events in the novel. Consider Nick's relationship with Tom and Daisy, and how his own values and beliefs might influence his interpretation of their actions. Question his judgments and look for alternative perspectives, as this will allow for a more nuanced understanding of the characters and their motivations.

FAQ: Addressing Common Questions about Tom and Myrtle

Q: Was Tom ever truly in love with Myrtle?

A: It is highly unlikely that Tom was ever truly in love with Myrtle. His attraction to her was primarily based on physical desire, the thrill of the forbidden, and the illusion of control. He saw her as a means to escape his boredom and reaffirm his sense of power, not as an equal partner deserving of love and respect.

Q: Did Myrtle love Tom?

A: Myrtle was likely infatuated with the idea of Tom and the lifestyle he represented. She was drawn to his wealth and power, seeing him as a way to escape her impoverished circumstances. However, her feelings were likely more about aspiration and desire for a better life than genuine love.

Q: Why didn't Tom leave Daisy for Myrtle?

A: Tom would never have left Daisy for Myrtle because Daisy represented his social standing and his connection to the old money elite. Myrtle was a temporary diversion, a means to satisfy his physical desires and escape his boredom, but she was never a threat to his social position.

Q: What does Myrtle's death symbolize?

A: Myrtle's death symbolizes the tragic consequences of the reckless pursuit of wealth and pleasure that characterized the Roaring Twenties. She is a victim of the social inequalities and the moral decay that lie beneath the glittering surface of the Jazz Age.

Q: How does Tom's affair with Myrtle contribute to the overall themes of The Great Gatsby?

A: Tom's affair with Myrtle contributes to several key themes of the novel, including the corruption of the American Dream, the destructive nature of wealth and privilege, and the superficiality of the upper class. It highlights the moral decay that lies beneath the glittering surface of the Roaring Twenties and the tragic consequences of pursuing fleeting pleasure at the expense of genuine human connection.

Conclusion: Reflecting on a Destructive Attraction

Tom Buchanan's attraction to Myrtle Wilson is a complex and ultimately destructive force that reveals much about his character and the themes of The Great Gatsby. It is a manifestation of his physical desires, his craving for control, his rebellion against societal constraints, and his deeper dissatisfaction with his life. The affair highlights the vast gulf between the wealthy elite and the working class, the moral decay that lies beneath the glittering surface of the Roaring Twenties, and the tragic consequences of pursuing fleeting pleasure at the expense of genuine human connection.

By understanding the multifaceted reasons behind Tom's attraction to Myrtle, we gain a deeper appreciation for the complexities of Fitzgerald's masterpiece and the enduring relevance of its themes. What do you think? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and let's discuss the complexities of Tom Buchanan's character and the tragic consequences of his choices. We encourage you to further explore the nuances of The Great Gatsby and delve into the many layers of meaning that Fitzgerald weaves into this timeless classic.