The Great Gatsby

Why does Fitzgerald describe the party in the present tense?

In the passage beginning " By seven o'clock the orchestra has arrived"

Asked by
Last updated by Aslan
Answers 1
Add Yours

I think that Fitzgerald wanted us to experience the party as Nick experiences it. This gives the narrative a sense of realism and immediacy that would be missing in past tense.

GradeSaver will pay $15 for your literature essays
GradeSaver will pay $25 for your college application essays
GradeSaver will pay $50 for your graduate school essays – Law, Business, or Medical
GradeSaver will pay $10 for your Community Note contributions
GradeSaver will pay $500 for your Textbook Answer contributions