Who is Wilson in The Great Gatsby? This question has intrigued readers for decades, as F. Scott Fitzgerald’s classic novel is filled with complex characters and mysterious relationships. Wilson, a seemingly insignificant figure, plays a crucial role in the unfolding of the story and the ultimate fate of Jay Gatsby.
In The Great Gatsby, Wilson is the mechanic who works at the garage owned by George Wilson. He is portrayed as a man of few words and limited social skills, often seen as a passive and unassuming character. However, as the story progresses, it becomes evident that Wilson possesses a deep-seated bitterness and a hidden motive that connects him to the central events of the novel.
Wilson’s connection to Gatsby is established through his wife, Myrtle Wilson. Myrtle, a discontented woman with a strong desire for a better life, is having an affair with Tom Buchanan, Gatsby’s neighbor. This affair is the catalyst for much of the novel’s tension and conflict. Wilson, although initially unaware of his wife’s infidelity, becomes increasingly obsessed with seeking revenge on both Tom and Gatsby.
The pivotal moment in Wilson’s character development occurs when he discovers Myrtle’s death, caused by Tom’s car accident. Enraged and desperate for retribution, Wilson decides to take matters into his own hands. He confronts Gatsby, demanding answers and seeking justice for his wife’s death. This confrontation leads to a tragic climax, as Wilson shoots Gatsby, who is then driven to his death by Tom.
While Wilson is not a central character in The Great Gatsby, his presence and actions have a significant impact on the novel’s narrative. He represents the dark undercurrents of the American Dream, illustrating the destructive consequences of obsession, greed, and the pursuit of wealth and status. Wilson’s character serves as a reminder that the American Dream is not always attainable, and that the pursuit of it can lead to unforeseen and tragic outcomes.
Moreover, Wilson’s role in the novel highlights the theme of the American Dream’s unattainability. He is a man who has worked hard, yet he remains trapped in a life of poverty and despair. This contrast with Gatsby, who has achieved wealth and status through questionable means, emphasizes the novel’s exploration of the American Dream’s elusive nature. Wilson’s character forces readers to question the true cost of the American Dream and the moral compromises that come with its pursuit.
In conclusion, Wilson in The Great Gatsby is a complex and enigmatic character whose actions and motivations play a crucial role in the novel’s plot. While he may not be a central figure, his presence and impact on the story serve to deepen the novel’s exploration of the American Dream and its consequences. Through Wilson, Fitzgerald reminds readers of the dark side of the Dream and the tragic consequences that can arise from its pursuit.
