The Great Gatsby

F. Scott Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby is often considered amongst the greatest of American novels and—alongside works by authors such as Hemingway and T.S. Eliot—is an essential representation of the Lost Generation. Inspired by events in Fitzgerald's own life, the story follows Jay Gatsby and his pursuit of the American Dream during the "roaring '20s". The novel became critically and financially successful following its publication, so much so that it was made into a film of the same name in 1974. Exploring its own generation's lack of direction, The Great Gatsby's social commentary remains relevant to this day and its literary prowess remains refreshing.