Why Does Tom Buchanan Fall for Myrtle Wilson in The Great Gatsby: A Deeper Look into Their Attraction
Tom and Myrtle's relationship in F. Scott Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby is a complex one, filled with passion and secrets. Tom Buchanan, the wealthy and entitled husband of Daisy, becomes inexplicably drawn to Myrtle Wilson, a lower-class woman married to George Wilson. But what draws Tom to Myrtle? What is it about her that he finds so irresistible?
At first glance, it may seem like Myrtle is just a mere object of desire for Tom, a way for him to escape his monotonous married life. However, as we delve deeper into the story, it becomes clear that there are more intricate reasons for his attraction to her.
One possible explanation is the fact that Myrtle represents a different world to Tom. She is not a part of the privileged elite that he belongs to, and this makes her all the more alluring. Tom's fascination with Myrtle is partly due to the fact that she embodies the excitement and danger of the unknown. He is drawn to her because she is different from what he knows, and therefore offers him a chance to experience something new and exciting.
Another reason why Tom may be attracted to Myrtle is her boldness and confidence. Unlike Daisy, who is often portrayed as fragile and delicate, Myrtle exudes a sense of strength and assertiveness. She is not afraid to speak her mind or challenge Tom, which is something that he may find refreshing and attractive. Tom is used to being in control, but Myrtle presents a challenge to his authority, and this may be a factor in his fascination with her.
Furthermore, Myrtle's physical appearance and sensuality cannot be ignored as a reason for Tom's attraction. She is described as voluptuous and provocative, with a voice that is full of money. Her sexuality is a stark contrast to Daisy's ethereal beauty and innocence, and Tom may be drawn to Myrtle's earthy sensuality as a result.
Despite these reasons for Tom's attraction to Myrtle, it is important to note that their relationship is ultimately fueled by selfishness and lust. Tom sees Myrtle as a means to an end, a way to satisfy his desires without any regard for the consequences. He uses her for his own pleasure and then discards her when he sees fit.
In conclusion, Tom's attraction to Myrtle is a complex one that is influenced by various factors. Whether it is her difference from his own world, her boldness and confidence, or her physical appearance and sensuality, one thing is clear - their relationship is not based on love or respect, but rather on selfishness and lust.
The Mysterious Attraction Between Tom and Myrtle
Tom Buchanan, a wealthy and powerful man, is married to Daisy, a beautiful and wealthy socialite. Despite being married, Tom has a secret attraction to Myrtle Wilson, a woman of lower social class. This illicit affair has puzzled many, but there are several reasons why Tom is attracted to Myrtle.
Myrtle's Physical Appearance
One of the most obvious reasons for Tom's attraction to Myrtle is her physical appearance. Myrtle is described as voluptuous, with full lips and a curvy figure. She also wears revealing clothing that accentuates her figure. Tom, who is known for his physical strength and athletic abilities, is likely drawn to Myrtle's physicality.
Myrtle's Confidence
Myrtle exudes confidence, which is another attractive quality for Tom. Unlike Daisy, who is demure and obedient, Myrtle is outspoken and assertive. She knows what she wants and is not afraid to go after it. Tom, who is used to getting what he wants, may find this trait refreshing and exciting.
Myrtle's Availability
Tom's attraction to Myrtle may also be fueled by her availability. As a married man, Tom cannot openly pursue other women. However, Myrtle is married to George Wilson, a powerless and unremarkable man who is unable to satisfy her desires. Tom sees this as an opportunity to have an affair without fear of consequences.
Myrtle's Social Ambition
Myrtle is not content with her middle-class lifestyle and wants to move up in the world. She is drawn to Tom's wealth and status, and sees him as a way to climb the social ladder. Tom, who is used to being admired and desired, may find Myrtle's ambition attractive.
Tom's Desire for Power
Tom is a man who craves power and control. He is used to getting what he wants, whether it is through physical strength or financial means. Myrtle, who is subservient to Tom, is an easy target for him to exert his dominance. Tom's attraction to Myrtle may stem from his desire to control her.
Tom's Disdain for the Middle Class
Tom is a member of the wealthy upper class and looks down on those in the middle class. However, there is something about Myrtle that intrigues him. Perhaps it is her boldness or her willingness to challenge societal norms. Whatever the reason, Tom's attraction to Myrtle may be fueled by his desire to rebel against his own social class.
Myrtle's Youthfulness
Myrtle is much younger than Tom's wife Daisy. She represents youth and vitality, which may be attractive to Tom. As a man who is getting older, Tom may see Myrtle as a way to recapture his youth and feel alive again.
Myrtle's Sensuality
Myrtle is a sensual woman who enjoys physical pleasure. She is not afraid to express her desires and is willing to explore new experiences. Tom, who is used to a more traditional and conservative approach to sex, may find Myrtle's sensuality exciting and alluring.
Tom's Need for Validation
Tom is a man who needs validation and admiration. He is used to being praised and admired for his wealth and status. Myrtle, who is attracted to Tom's power and status, provides him with the admiration and validation he craves. Tom's attraction to Myrtle may stem from his need for constant affirmation.
The Thrill of the Forbidden
Lastly, Tom's attraction to Myrtle may simply be fueled by the thrill of the forbidden. As a man who is used to getting what he wants, the idea of having an illicit affair with a woman of lower social class may be exciting and exhilarating for him.
Conclusion
Tom's attraction to Myrtle is complex and multi-faceted. It is likely fueled by her physical appearance, confidence, availability, social ambition, and sensuality, as well as his own desire for power, validation, and rebellion. Whatever the reasons, their illicit affair ultimately leads to tragedy and heartbreak for all involved.
Why Is Tom Attracted To Myrtle?
Tom's initial attraction to Myrtle is rooted in her vivacious and bold personality. Their first encounter reveals a woman who is unafraid to speak her mind and take charge of a situation, which immediately catches his attention. Her confidence and charisma are magnetic, drawing him towards her.
Physical Appeal
In addition to her personality, Myrtle's physical appearance also plays a role in Tom's attraction towards her. Her curvy figure and bold fashion choices make her stand out in a crowd, and he finds himself drawn to her unique style. Her beauty is undeniable, and he can't help but be captivated by her.
Disillusionment with Daisy
Tom's marriage to Daisy has lost its spark, and Myrtle provides him with an alternative outlet for his desires. He feels disconnected from his wife and longs for something new and exciting. Myrtle offers him a chance to escape the mundane routine of his life and explore a different side of himself.
Social Status
Myrtle's lower social status and association with a different class of people intrigues Tom. He enjoys the opportunity to indulge in a world that is different from his own, where he can let loose and not worry about his reputation. Myrtle's friends and acquaintances provide him with a sense of freedom that he can't find in his upper-class circles.
Sexual Chemistry
The chemistry between Tom and Myrtle is electric, with their sexual energy practically palpable in their interactions. They share an intense physical attraction that draws them together, unable to resist each other's touch. Their passion is a driving force in their relationship, fueling their desire for each other.
Disregard for Consequences
As a man who is used to getting what he wants, Tom is willing to risk the consequences of his affair with Myrtle. He knows that his actions could have serious repercussions, but he is unable to resist the pull towards her. His desire for her outweighs any potential consequences, and he is willing to take the risk.
Reckless Behavior
Tom's attraction to Myrtle is also fueled by the thrill of engaging in reckless behavior. Sneaking around behind Daisy's back and living a double life is exhilarating for him, adding an element of danger and excitement to his otherwise predictable existence. He enjoys the thrill of the chase and the risk involved in their affair.
Convenience
Myrtle is conveniently located close to Tom's New York apartment, making it easy for him to see her without raising suspicion. Their proximity allows them to meet up at a moment's notice, adding to the spontaneity of their relationship. The ease with which he can see her makes it difficult for him to resist her temptation.
Power Dynamic
Tom enjoys the power dynamic of their relationship, where he can exert control over Myrtle and her actions. He is the one with the money and the social status, and she is dependent on him. This dynamic gives him a sense of power and dominance that he finds appealing.
Escape from Reality
For Tom, his affair with Myrtle is a way to escape from the pressures and responsibilities of his privileged life. He is able to forget about his problems and live in the moment, enjoying the pleasure that Myrtle provides him. It is a temporary escape from the expectations that come with his societal position.
In conclusion, Tom's attraction to Myrtle is multifaceted. Her personality, physical appearance, and social status all play a role in his desire for her. Their sexual chemistry, disregard for consequences, and power dynamic add to the excitement of their relationship. Ultimately, his affair with Myrtle offers him an escape from reality, allowing him to indulge in his desires and forget about the pressures of his privileged life.
Tom's Attraction to Myrtle
The Story
Tom, a wealthy and arrogant man, is married to Daisy who he no longer loves. One day he meets Myrtle, a woman from the lower class, at a party in New York City. Tom is immediately attracted to her and begins an affair with her.
Myrtle provides Tom with something that Daisy cannot - a sense of excitement and novelty. She lives life on the edge, which intrigues Tom. He sees her as a breath of fresh air and a way to escape the monotony of his everyday life.
Despite Myrtle's lack of sophistication and class, Tom is drawn to her vivacious personality and willingness to do things that Daisy would never consider. He finds her alluring and fascinating, and relishes in the taboo nature of their relationship.
Tom's attraction to Myrtle is also fueled by his desire for power and control. He likes the idea of having a mistress, someone who will cater to his every whim without question. Myrtle is willing to do anything to be with Tom, and this makes him feel powerful and important.
The Point of View
From Tom's point of view, his attraction to Myrtle is a way to escape the confines of his unhappy marriage and experience something new and exciting. He sees Myrtle as a way to satisfy his desires and fulfill his needs, both emotionally and physically.
He is drawn to her because she is everything that Daisy is not - daring, adventurous, and passionate. He enjoys the thrill of being with someone who is not his wife, and the power that comes with having a mistress who is willing to do anything for him.
Ultimately, Tom's attraction to Myrtle is a reflection of his own selfish desires and need for control. He does not care about the consequences of his actions or how they will impact others, as long as he gets what he wants.
Keywords Table
| Keyword | Definition |
|---|---|
| Attraction | A feeling of being drawn towards someone or something |
| Affair | A sexual relationship outside of marriage |
| Vivacious | Lively, high-spirited |
| Taboo | A social or cultural practice that is forbidden or prohibited |
| Power | The ability to control or influence others |
| Selfish | Concerned only with one's own interests and needs |
Closing Message
To conclude, Tom's attraction to Myrtle is a complex issue that goes beyond mere physical desire. As we have explored in this article, there are various factors that contribute to his infatuation with her.One of the key reasons is the sense of escape that Myrtle represents for Tom. As a wealthy and privileged man, he is trapped within the constraints of his social class and his marriage. Myrtle, on the other hand, offers him a taste of freedom and adventure, allowing him to break free from his mundane existence.Furthermore, Myrtle's bold and assertive personality is also a major factor in her appeal to Tom. Unlike his wife Daisy, who is passive and submissive, Myrtle is not afraid to speak her mind and take control of situations. This quality challenges and excites Tom, who is used to being in control at all times.At the same time, it is important to acknowledge the problematic nature of Tom's attraction to Myrtle. His desire for her is driven by a sense of entitlement and superiority, which stems from his position of power and privilege. He sees Myrtle as a conquest or a possession, rather than as a human being with her own agency and desires.Overall, the relationship between Tom and Myrtle is a complex and multifaceted one, shaped by a variety of psychological, social, and cultural factors. While it may be tempting to reduce it to a simple case of physical attraction or moral depravity, it is important to examine the underlying causes and implications of their affair.As readers, we are invited to reflect on our own attitudes and biases towards issues of gender, class, and power, and to question the ways in which they shape our perceptions of others. By doing so, we can gain a deeper understanding of the characters in The Great Gatsby and the society in which they live, and apply these insights to our own lives and relationships.Why Is Tom Attracted To Myrtle?
Who is Tom and Myrtle?
Tom Buchanan is a character in the novel The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald. He is married to Daisy Buchanan. Myrtle Wilson, on the other hand, is married to George Wilson, who owns a gas station in the Valley of Ashes.
What makes Tom attracted to Myrtle?
Tom's attraction to Myrtle stems from his desire for power and control. Myrtle represents a fantasy world of pleasure and excitement that Tom cannot find with his wife, Daisy. Myrtle is a symbol of the life that Tom wants but can't have because of his social position.
Is Tom in love with Myrtle?
No, Tom is not in love with Myrtle. His relationship with her is purely physical and based on his desire for control and domination.
Why does Tom mistreat Myrtle?
Tom mistreats Myrtle because he sees her as a possession rather than a person. He enjoys having power over her and treats her poorly to assert his dominance. Tom is a selfish and arrogant character who thinks nothing of hurting others to get what he wants.
What does Tom's attraction to Myrtle say about him?
Tom's attraction to Myrtle shows that he is a flawed and complex character. He is unhappy with his life and seeks fulfillment in the wrong places. Tom's attraction to Myrtle also reveals his sense of entitlement and his belief that he can do whatever he wants without consequences.
Conclusion
Tom's attraction to Myrtle is a significant theme in The Great Gatsby. It reveals much about his character and the society in which he lives. Tom's desire for power and control is a driving force in his relationship with Myrtle, and it ultimately leads to tragedy for all involved.