The Great Gatsby

chapter 6 questions

7. Nick reminds Gatsby that he “can’t repeat the past.” What is Gatsby’s response? How does this response relate to some of the book’s major themes?

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“Can’t repeat the past?” he cried incredulously. “Why of course you can!”

Gatsby couldn't get the girl the first time around. He was a passing fancy, he didn't move in the right social circle, and although she genuinely cared for him a marriage would never have happened. Gatsby has moved through the years trying to make himself worthy, unable to see that he would never be worthy. The theme of class, and the fact that Gatsby can never belong to Daisy's class of old money will always come between them.