Why did Nick move to West Egg?
In F. Scott Fitzgerald's timeless classic, "The Great Gatsby," we follow the story of the enigmatic Jay Gatsby and his pursuit of the American Dream. The novel is narrated by Nick Carraway, a young man who moves to the fictional West Egg on Long Island in the 1920s. As an economist, I cannot help but view the story through the lens of economic concepts, and I believe that both brain drain and assortative mating can provide valuable insights into Nick Carraway's decision to move to West Egg.
Brain Drain and the Migration to West Egg
The concept of brain drain refers to the emigration of skilled or talented individuals from their home country or region to another in search of better opportunities. Though "The Great Gatsby" is set in the United States, Nick Carraway's move from the Midwest to West Egg can be interpreted as a form of internal brain drain. Nick is a well-educated, ambitious young man who graduated from Yale and served in World War I. His relocation to West Egg, a symbol of wealth and extravagance, can be seen as a pursuit of opportunities that were simply not available in his home region.
This internal brain drain is evident throughout the novel, as the East Coast, particularly New York City and its surrounding areas, is depicted as a hub of culture, finance, and social mobility. West Egg, though slightly less fashionable than its counterpart East Egg, still represents a significant step up for Nick, who seeks to establish himself in the bond business. In this way, Fitzgerald highlights the allure of metropolitan areas and the migration of talent away from less prosperous regions.
Assortative Mating and Social Connections
Assortative mating, the tendency of individuals to pair up with others who have similar traits or backgrounds, also plays a role in Nick Carraway's decision to move to West Egg. Nick's social circle in West Egg includes individuals with similar educational and socioeconomic backgrounds, such as his second cousin, Daisy Buchanan, and her husband, Tom. Moreover, his new neighbor, Jay Gatsby, is a self-made millionaire who also shares an ambition for success and upward mobility.
As Nick navigates the intricate social landscape of West Egg, he forms connections with people who share his background and aspirations. This process of assortative mating is not limited to romantic relationships but also extends to friendships and professional networks. By moving to West Egg, Nick gains access to a network of individuals who can potentially help him advance his career and social standing.
Furthermore, his association with Gatsby exposes him to the world of the nouveau riche, an environment where individuals from humble beginnings have acquired wealth through determination and ingenuity. This aligns with Nick's own ambitions and the broader themes of social mobility and the pursuit of the American Dream.
