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2. Elaborate on the epigram: “There are only the pursued, the pursuing, the busy, and the tired.” Show how it contributes to the development of plot, character, and theme in the novel. Give justification for its being the single most important line in the novel.

“There are only the pursued, the pursuing, the busy, and the tired." (page 81) can be seen to be the most important line in the novel. This statement focuses on the universal theme of the novel. Everyone is trying to pursue their own version of the American Dream. The busy and tired are trying to pursue great wealth and the people that have pursued great wealth are trying to pursue happiness. Gatsby has pursued wealth, but now wants to win Daisy's heart back to complete his life fulfilling his American Dream.



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