The artist, wrote Joseph Conrad, speaks to our capacity for delight and wonder, to the sense of mystery surrounding our lives. That was the art that Scott Fitzgerald would find, reminding us that a mirage may be more marvelous in its way than an oasis in the desert. Gatsby's great error is his belief in the reality of the mirage; Fitzgerald's great gift was his belief in the mirage as a mirage. Splendor, Fitzgerald came to understand, was something in the heart.
Joseph Conrad highlighted the unique role of the artist in awakening our sense of joy and the inherent mysteries of life. This perspective resonates strongly with F. Scott Fitzgerald's work, particularly in how he portrayed the illusions of life and the beauty found in them. Fitzgerald's "The Great Gatsby" captures the charm of dreams, suggesting that sometimes the allure of a mirage can surpass that of a tangible oasis.
However, Gatsby's tragic flaw is his unwavering belief in the authenticity of this mirage, which leads to his downfall. In contrast, Fitzgerald possessed the insight to appreciate the mirage for what it truly was—a beautiful illusion. This realization taught him that true splendor resides within one's heart, not in external circumstances. Such reflections on art and life enrich our understanding of Fitzgerald's literary legacy.
