F. Scott Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby is making another transition from literature to film. The story takes place during the famed period of the "Roaring Twenties" and focuses on the mysterious figure of Jay Gatsby. The story unfolds to reveal longing, intrigue, and betrayal. As modern literature The Great Gatsby has earned its notoriety for its depiction of an era. As a modern story, much of what made Gatsby notable might have been undone by modern communications technology, not least of which social media.
Social media has enabled people to gain access to an unprecedented amount of exposure. This exposure may be sought after or an unwelcome pestilence. Jay Gatsby thrived on his reputation as a mysterious host. To be sure, Gatsby would have a difficult time securing his prestige, wealth, and reputation if his story took place today where social media is so prominently on the scene. Here is a rundown on why social media would have crippled Gatsby.
Reason 1: The major themes in The Great Gatsby include secrecy, deception, and a lack of inhibition. These themes make their presence especially known with the love triangles, infidelity, and secret rendezvous' that run wild throughout the story. Social media could contribute to any number of backfires in keeping a lid on things. It would be a rare sight to not see somebody snapping pictures with their camera phone and posting the images up on Facebook. Everybody knows somebody who takes their photo postings seriously enough to tag people and provide commentary. It is very possible that evidence of an affair would be smattered across any number of social media photo albums. The end result could lead to an unwanted exposure of a nasty little secret.
Reason 2: It is more than hinted that Gatsby made his fortune through illegal means. The 1920s was not only branded the "Roaring Twenties", it was also known as the Prohibition Era. Making money through the efforts of organized crime and smuggling might prove too risky. The action after the Boston Marathon bombings confirmed that there is no shortage of people willing to take to social media in order to help track down high profile criminals. While many enjoyed the booze Gatsby was credited with smuggling in, he was sure to have enemies in those who believed in prohibition. Worse yet, a drunken party guest might be responsible for inadvertently tipping off the authorities with a revealing post or YouTube video.
Reason 3: Social media has a tendency to make images, statements, and events high profile. To the masses, Gatsby was known for his strange reclusive tendencies just as much as he was associated with the lavish parties he hosted. No doubt Gatsby's parties would be lauded among his regular attendees but what happens when somebody has a bad experience or doesn't get an invite? Social media trolls could conceivably bash Gatsby's parties so bad that he might need to enlist the help of a good social media agency in order to keep people coming. A nearly invisible host might also be subject to slanderous rumors.
Even though social media has proved to be a potent tool in bringing light to all varieties of news, extra caution is rarely exercised. Posting incriminating evidence tends to be a regular habit of a lot of social media users. It happens enough for us to shake our heads in disbelief and wonder why. It's my contention Gatsby was one such person who lacked the will or awareness to exercise due discretion. Take a look at the sensational stories social media has involvement with and size up Fitzgerald's character. What do you think?