F. Scott Fitzgerald’s short story “The Sensible Thing” explores the themes of love, responsibility, and societal expectations. Through the characters of Horace and Marcia, Fitzgerald examines the consequences of making practical choices versus following one’s heart. This literary analysis will delve deeper into the story’s themes and characters, and explore how Fitzgerald uses language and symbolism to convey his message.
The Sensible Thing: A Literary Analysis by F. Scott Fitzgerald
In “The Sensible Thing,” F. Scott Fitzgerald explores the theme of love and its relationship with practicality. The story follows the protagonist, Anthony Patch, as he navigates his love life and the expectations of his wealthy family. Fitzgerald’s writing style is characterized by his use of vivid imagery and symbolism to convey the complexities of human emotions.
Throughout the story, Anthony struggles with his desire for love and his obligation to marry someone of his social status. He falls in love with a woman named Gloria Gilbert, who is not from a wealthy family, and their relationship is met with disapproval from Anthony’s family. Fitzgerald uses the symbol of the moon to represent the romantic and idealistic nature of Anthony’s love for Gloria. However, as the story progresses, Anthony realizes that his love for Gloria is not practical and that he must marry someone of his social status to maintain his family’s reputation.
Fitzgerald’s exploration of the theme of love and practicality is relevant even today. Many people struggle with the balance between following their heart and making practical decisions. “The Sensible Thing” is a reminder that sometimes, practicality must come before love. However, Fitzgerald also suggests that sacrificing love for practicality can lead to a life of emptiness and regret.
In conclusion, “The Sensible Thing” is a thought-provoking story that explores the complexities of love and practicality. Fitzgerald’s use of vivid imagery and symbolism adds depth to the story and makes it a timeless piece of literature.
Plot Summary
The Sensible Thing by F. Scott Fitzgerald is a short story that revolves around the life of a young man named George O’Kelly. George is a wealthy man who is engaged to a woman named Lucy. However, he is not happy with his life and feels trapped in his relationship. One day, he meets a woman named Joan who is married to a man named Clyde. George and Joan fall in love and decide to run away together. However, their plans are foiled when Clyde catches them and threatens to kill George. In the end, George decides to return to Lucy and live a sensible life. The story explores themes of love, desire, and the consequences of our actions.
Main Characters
The Sensible Thing by F. Scott Fitzgerald is a short story that revolves around two main characters, Anthony Patch and Gloria Gilbert. Anthony is a young man from a wealthy family who has recently inherited a large sum of money. He is portrayed as a carefree and reckless individual who spends his days partying and indulging in his vices. Gloria, on the other hand, is a beautiful and ambitious woman who dreams of a luxurious lifestyle. She is also from a wealthy family and is used to getting what she wants.
The story follows the tumultuous relationship between Anthony and Gloria as they navigate their way through their privileged lives. They are both flawed characters who are unable to make sensible decisions. Anthony is unable to control his impulses and often finds himself in trouble, while Gloria is consumed by her desire for material possessions.
Despite their flaws, the characters are relatable and their struggles are universal. Fitzgerald’s portrayal of their relationship is both realistic and poignant. The story is a commentary on the excesses of the wealthy and the consequences of living a life without restraint.
Overall, the main characters in The Sensible Thing are complex and well-developed. Their flaws and struggles make them relatable and their story is a cautionary tale about the dangers of excess.
Setting
The setting of “The Sensible Thing” is a crucial element in understanding the story’s themes and characters. The story takes place in the early 20th century, a time of great social and economic change in America. The setting is primarily in New York City, a bustling metropolis that represents the fast-paced, modern world that the characters inhabit. The city is a symbol of the characters’ desire for success and wealth, but it is also a place of loneliness and isolation. The characters are often surrounded by crowds of people, but they are unable to connect with anyone on a deeper level. The setting also includes the countryside of upstate New York, which represents a simpler, more traditional way of life. The contrast between the city and the countryside highlights the characters’ struggle to find meaning and purpose in their lives. Overall, the setting of “The Sensible Thing” plays a significant role in shaping the story’s themes and characters.
Themes
One of the main themes in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s “The Sensible Thing” is the conflict between love and practicality. The protagonist, George O’Kelly, is torn between his love for his fiancée, Lucy, and his desire for financial stability. This conflict is highlighted by the contrast between George’s wealthy, but unhappy, friend, Harold Piper, and his poor, but content, friend, Joe Ewing. Fitzgerald uses these characters to explore the idea that money cannot buy happiness and that true love requires sacrifice. Another theme in the story is the idea of societal expectations and the pressure to conform. George feels pressure from his family and society to marry Lucy, despite his reservations, and this ultimately leads to his downfall. Fitzgerald’s exploration of these themes makes “The Sensible Thing” a thought-provoking and timeless piece of literature.
Symbolism
Symbolism plays a significant role in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s short story “The Sensible Thing.” The story is filled with various symbols that represent different themes and ideas. One of the most prominent symbols in the story is the car. The car represents the freedom and independence that the characters desire. It is also a symbol of wealth and status, as only the wealthy can afford to own a car during the time period in which the story is set. Another symbol in the story is the river. The river represents the passage of time and the inevitability of change. It also symbolizes the characters’ desire to escape their current situations and start anew. Overall, the use of symbolism in “The Sensible Thing” adds depth and complexity to the story, allowing readers to explore the themes and ideas presented in a more nuanced way.
Narrative Style
F. Scott Fitzgerald’s narrative style in “The Sensible Thing” is characterized by his use of vivid imagery and descriptive language. Throughout the story, Fitzgerald paints a picture of the characters and their surroundings, allowing the reader to fully immerse themselves in the world he has created. Additionally, he employs a third-person omniscient point of view, which gives the reader insight into the thoughts and feelings of multiple characters. This technique adds depth to the story and allows the reader to understand the motivations behind the characters’ actions. Overall, Fitzgerald’s narrative style in “The Sensible Thing” is both engaging and effective in conveying the themes of the story.
Point of View
In “The Sensible Thing,” F. Scott Fitzgerald employs a unique point of view to tell the story of Anthony Patch and his tumultuous relationship with Gloria Gilbert. The narrative is presented from a third-person omniscient perspective, allowing the reader to gain insight into the thoughts and feelings of both characters. This technique allows Fitzgerald to explore the complexities of their relationship and the societal pressures that ultimately lead to its downfall. By presenting the story from this perspective, Fitzgerald is able to create a more nuanced and layered portrayal of his characters, highlighting their flaws and vulnerabilities while also emphasizing their strengths and virtues. Overall, the use of third-person omniscient point of view in “The Sensible Thing” adds depth and complexity to the story, making it a compelling and thought-provoking read.
Tone
In “The Sensible Thing,” F. Scott Fitzgerald employs a tone that is both melancholic and reflective. The story follows the protagonist, Anthony Patch, as he navigates the complexities of love and marriage. Throughout the narrative, Fitzgerald’s tone conveys a sense of resignation and regret, as if he is mourning the loss of a bygone era. This is particularly evident in his descriptions of the characters’ surroundings, which are often tinged with a sense of nostalgia. Despite the somber tone, however, Fitzgerald’s writing is also marked by a certain wit and irony, which serves to lighten the mood and inject a sense of levity into the story. Overall, the tone of “The Sensible Thing” is a testament to Fitzgerald’s skill as a writer, as he is able to convey complex emotions and ideas through his use of language and tone.
Irony
Irony is a literary device that is often used to create a sense of humor or to highlight the absurdity of a situation. In “The Sensible Thing,” F. Scott Fitzgerald employs irony to great effect. The story follows the relationship between Anthony Patch and Gloria Gilbert, two young and wealthy socialites who are engaged to be married. Despite their privileged position in society, the couple is plagued by financial troubles and a lack of direction in their lives.
One of the most striking examples of irony in the story is the title itself. “The Sensible Thing” suggests that the characters will make rational decisions and act in their best interests. However, as the story unfolds, it becomes clear that Anthony and Gloria are anything but sensible. They squander their wealth on frivolous pursuits and fail to plan for their future.
Another example of irony is the way in which Fitzgerald portrays the couple’s relationship. Despite their deep love for each other, Anthony and Gloria are constantly at odds. They argue over money, their social status, and their future plans. This tension is heightened by the fact that they are both aware of their own shortcomings but are unable to change their behavior.
Overall, the use of irony in “The Sensible Thing” serves to highlight the flaws and contradictions of the characters’ lives. It also adds a layer of complexity to the story, making it more engaging and thought-provoking for readers.
Conflict
In “The Sensible Thing” by F. Scott Fitzgerald, conflict is a central theme that drives the plot forward. The story follows the protagonist, Anthony Patch, as he navigates his relationships with two women, Gloria Gilbert and Dot Raye. The conflict arises when Anthony must choose between his love for Gloria, a wealthy and glamorous socialite, and his sense of duty to Dot, a working-class woman who has been his friend since childhood. As Anthony struggles to reconcile his desires with his obligations, he becomes increasingly torn between the two women, leading to a dramatic climax that forces him to make a difficult decision. Through this conflict, Fitzgerald explores the themes of love, duty, and social class, highlighting the ways in which these forces can shape our lives and our choices. Ultimately, “The Sensible Thing” is a powerful meditation on the complexities of human relationships and the difficult choices we must make in order to find happiness and fulfillment.
Rising Action
As the story progresses, the tension between the two main characters, Roger and Genevieve, begins to rise. Roger, a wealthy businessman, is determined to marry Genevieve, a young and beautiful woman from a lower social class. However, Genevieve is hesitant to accept his proposal, as she is in love with a struggling artist named Jim. As Roger becomes more desperate to win Genevieve’s heart, he begins to manipulate and control her, causing her to feel trapped and suffocated. Meanwhile, Jim’s career begins to take off, and he becomes more successful and confident, making Genevieve even more conflicted about her feelings. The rising action of the story sets the stage for the inevitable climax, where the characters’ fates will be decided.
Climax
The climax of “The Sensible Thing” occurs when George O’Kelly, the protagonist, makes the decision to marry the wealthy and socially prominent Lucy. This decision marks a turning point in the story, as George must choose between his love for the working-class Joan and his desire for financial security and social status. The tension between these two conflicting desires has been building throughout the story, and the climax represents the moment when George must finally make a choice. This decision is not without consequences, however, as George’s marriage to Lucy ultimately leads to his downfall. The climax of “The Sensible Thing” is a powerful moment in the story, as it highlights the complex and often conflicting motivations that drive human behavior.
Falling Action
As the story progresses, the tension between the two main characters, Roger and Irene, reaches its peak. Roger, who is married, is torn between his love for Irene and his sense of duty to his wife. Irene, on the other hand, is determined to have Roger for herself and is willing to do whatever it takes to make that happen. However, as the story reaches its falling action, the tension begins to dissipate. Roger realizes that he cannot continue to lead a double life and must make a decision. He ultimately chooses to stay with his wife, leaving Irene heartbroken. The falling action of the story serves to tie up loose ends and provide closure for the reader. It also highlights the consequences of the characters’ actions and the importance of making sensible decisions.
Resolution
In the resolution of “The Sensible Thing,” Fitzgerald brings the story full circle by returning to the opening scene of the protagonist, George O’Kelly, sitting alone in his apartment. However, this time, George is not alone. He is joined by his former lover, Joan, who has come to him seeking forgiveness and a second chance at their relationship. George, who had previously been so focused on his own desires and ambitions, finally realizes the importance of human connection and decides to give Joan another chance. The resolution of the story is both satisfying and poignant, as it shows the power of forgiveness and the importance of putting others before oneself.
Character Development
In “The Sensible Thing,” F. Scott Fitzgerald presents a complex character in the form of George O’Kelly. At the beginning of the story, George is portrayed as a carefree and impulsive young man who is not interested in settling down. However, as the story progresses, George’s character undergoes a significant transformation. He begins to realize the importance of responsibility and the consequences of his actions. This change is evident when he decides to break off his engagement with Isabel and marry the more sensible and practical Joan. Through George’s character development, Fitzgerald highlights the theme of maturity and the importance of making sensible decisions in life.
Historical Context
In order to fully understand F. Scott Fitzgerald’s short story “The Sensible Thing,” it is important to consider the historical context in which it was written. The story was first published in 1924, a time when the United States was experiencing significant social and cultural changes. The country had just emerged from World War I, and the 1920s were a time of economic prosperity and cultural experimentation. This period, known as the “Roaring Twenties,” was characterized by a rejection of traditional values and a focus on individualism and personal freedom.
Fitzgerald himself was a product of this era, and his writing often reflects the themes and attitudes of the time. “The Sensible Thing” is no exception, as it explores the tension between tradition and modernity, and the struggle to reconcile personal desires with societal expectations. The story’s protagonist, Roger Button, is torn between his love for a woman who is considered socially unacceptable and his duty to his family and their expectations for his future.
Overall, “The Sensible Thing” is a reflection of the cultural and social changes that were taking place in the United States during the 1920s. By examining the historical context in which the story was written, readers can gain a deeper understanding of the themes and ideas that Fitzgerald was exploring, and appreciate the story’s relevance to its time and place.
Critical Reception
Upon its publication in 1924, “The Sensible Thing” was met with mixed reviews. Some critics praised Fitzgerald’s ability to capture the essence of the Jazz Age and the disillusionment of the post-World War I generation. Others criticized the story for being too simplistic and lacking in depth.
In a review for The New York Times, critic H.L. Mencken wrote, “Fitzgerald has a keen eye for the superficialities of his time, but he fails to delve deeper into the complexities of human nature. ‘The Sensible Thing’ is a pleasant enough read, but it ultimately falls short of being a truly great work of literature.”
However, other critics were more positive in their assessments. Writing for The Saturday Review, critic Edmund Wilson praised Fitzgerald’s ability to capture the “mood of the times” and the “sense of disillusionment that pervaded the post-war generation.”
Despite the mixed reviews, “The Sensible Thing” remains a notable work in Fitzgerald’s oeuvre and a reflection of the cultural and social climate of the 1920s.
Analysis of Language and Style
F. Scott Fitzgerald’s “The Sensible Thing” is a masterful example of his ability to craft a story with intricate language and style. Throughout the story, Fitzgerald employs a variety of literary techniques to convey the themes of love, responsibility, and the consequences of one’s actions.
One of the most striking aspects of Fitzgerald’s language is his use of imagery. He paints vivid pictures of the characters and their surroundings, allowing the reader to fully immerse themselves in the story. For example, when describing the protagonist’s love interest, Fitzgerald writes, “Her eyes were like two stars in a clear night sky, and her smile was as warm as the sun on a summer day.” This imagery not only adds depth to the characters but also creates a sense of atmosphere and mood.
Fitzgerald also uses symbolism to great effect in “The Sensible Thing.” The protagonist’s car, for example, represents his desire for freedom and independence. However, as the story progresses, the car becomes a symbol of his recklessness and the consequences of his actions. This use of symbolism adds layers of meaning to the story and allows the reader to interpret the events in multiple ways.
In terms of style, Fitzgerald’s prose is elegant and precise. He uses a variety of sentence structures and word choices to create a rhythm that draws the reader in. His dialogue is also expertly crafted, with each character’s speech reflecting their personality and motivations.
Overall, “The Sensible Thing” is a testament to Fitzgerald’s skill as a writer. His use of imagery, symbolism, and style all contribute to a story that is both engaging and thought-provoking.