What is the comparison of attitudes between Gatsby and the visiting trio which includes Tom Buchanan?

Answer 1

Gatsby is genuinely pleased and flattered that the trio stops by thinking that he is being accepted into their social circle. Gatsby's whole purpose in being that last five years has been to climb up to Daisy's social strata so that he could win Daisy. He is especially pleased that one of the three is Tom Buchanan. The three riders, Tom, a man named Sloane, and a woman, have only stopped however because they were thirsty. They regard Gatsby as little more than a lemonade stand run by an eager child. Sloane is haughty the entire time they are at Gatsby's and is eager to leave as though being there will taint him somehow. The woman politely, after a couple cocktails, asks Gatsby to supper. Tom insists, talking to Nick, that the woman doesn't mean it, she is simply being mannerly. When Gatsby leaves to get his hat and coat, the group leaves however. Gatsby has been snubbed and he doesn't realize it.

Answer 2

Gatsby is idealistic and hopeful, believing in the power of love and the possibility of a better future. In contrast, Tom Buchanan and the visiting trio represent a sense of entitlement, privilege, and cynicism, valuing wealth and status above all else. Gatsby's optimism clashes with their materialism and superficial values.