Podcast Summary: "687 Gatsby Turns 100 (with James West)"

The History of Literature
Host: Jacke Wilson
Guest: James West, Professor Emeritus at Pennsylvania State University and General Editor of the Cambridge Centennial Edition of The Great Gatsby
Release Date: March 17, 2025

Introduction to The Great Gatsby Centennial

In this milestone episode, host Jacke Wilson celebrates the 100th anniversary of F. Scott Fitzgerald's seminal novel, The Great Gatsby. Despite its initial lukewarm reception—with fewer than 25,000 copies sold within 15 years of its publication—the novel has burgeoned into a cornerstone of American literature, now boasting over 25 million purchases and sustained annual sales of half a million copies. Wilson reflects on the enduring optimism and sense of community depicted in the novel, drawing parallels to contemporary societal challenges.

“Happy birthday to the Great Gatsby. 100 years old and still going strong and happy.”
— Jack Wilson [01:28]

The Legacy of Maxwell Perkins

James West delves into the pivotal role of Maxwell Perkins, the esteemed editor at Charles Scribner's Sons, in shaping The Great Gatsby. Perkins recognized the novel's potential when others did not, demonstrating a keen understanding of Fitzgerald's genius. West highlights Perkins' broader impact on American literature, noting his mentorship of literary giants like Hemingway and Thomas Wolfe.

“The general brilliant quality of the book makes me ashamed to make even these criticisms.”
— Maxwell Perkins [08:15]

West recounts how Perkins employed a "praise sandwich"—balancing commendations with constructive criticism—to refine Fitzgerald's work. This editorial collaboration was instrumental in transforming The Great Gatsby from a modest success to a literary masterpiece.

“If we do have to choose four, maybe four generals for our army, we could do worse than F. Scott Fitzgerald.”
— Jack Wilson [07:40]

Evolution and Cultural Resonance of The Great Gatsby

The conversation shifts to why The Great Gatsby has achieved iconic status. West attributes its enduring appeal to its teachability, rich symbolism, and relatable themes that resonate across generations. The novel's exploration of the American Dream, youth, beauty, and the inevitable passage of time allows it to adapt seamlessly to various cultural contexts.

“The Great Gatsby seems to seize and hold their attention and carry them through.”
— James West [25:14]

West discusses specific symbols like the green light and the eyes of Dr. T.J. Eckleburg, which serve as focal points for thematic analysis and classroom discussion. He emphasizes the novel's narrative drive, concise storytelling, and the enigmatic characterization of Jay Gatsby as key factors in its widespread acclaim.

Misconceptions and Literary Critique

Addressing common misconceptions, West clarifies that Fitzgerald meticulously revised The Great Gatsby, debunking the myth that it was a swiftly written masterpiece. He explains that multiple drafts reveal significant transformations, underscoring Fitzgerald's craftsmanship.

“Fitzgerald's first drafts in manuscript were often rather pedestrian... that's what it became in the final version that he published.”
— James West [35:12]

West also challenges the notion of the novel's perfection, acknowledging structural flaws and narrative choices that required "strong arm work" to finalize. Despite these imperfections, he maintains that the novel's strengths far outweigh its weaknesses.

The Cambridge Centennial Edition

James West introduces the Cambridge Centennial Edition of The Great Gatsby, highlighting its comprehensive features designed to enrich the reader's experience. The edition includes a new introduction by critic Sarah Churchwell, extensive annotations, illustrations, photographs, sheet music from the novel, and facsimiles of Fitzgerald's manuscripts and proofs. These additions provide valuable context, bridging the 1925 original with contemporary readers.

“It's fun to reread a favorite work in a new edition and see the new context for it and get the feel of the pages and see the new illustrations and all of those things.”
— James West [48:05]

West encourages listeners to explore this edition to gain deeper insights into Fitzgerald's creative process and the historical backdrop of the novel.

Fitzgerald's Personal Life and Literary Contributions

The discussion broadens to Fitzgerald's personal life, exploring how his experiences and lifestyle influenced his writing. West portrays Fitzgerald as a complex figure who balanced artistic ambition with commercial success, often at personal cost. His tumultuous relationship with Zelda and his penchant for the vibrant 1920s lifestyle are depicted as both a muse and a bane for his literary endeavors.

“Fitzgerald needed the parties and the lifestyle and all of that. It kind of fueled his fiction in a way.”
— James West [41:14]

West reflects on Fitzgerald's legacy, emphasizing his ubiquitous presence in American culture and the continual relevance of his work in understanding themes like societal downfall and personal ambition.

Conclusion: Enduring Impact and Future Reflections

As the episode wraps up, West reiterates the timeless nature of The Great Gatsby, noting its ability to find new audiences despite cultural and temporal shifts. The novel's exploration of timeless human experiences ensures its place in both academic settings and popular consciousness.

“The Great Gatsby is ubiquitous in American life. He's everywhere.”
— James West [43:59]

Jack Wilson concludes by praising the guest and teasing future episodes that will explore other literary giants and their contributions to literature.

“Hard to believe you were only in your 60s. The first time I read you, you already seemed like you'd been around forever even then.”
— Jack Wilson [49:30]

Notable Quotes

• “Happy birthday to the Great Gatsby. 100 years old and still going strong and happy.”
  — Jack Wilson [01:28]

• “The general brilliant quality of the book makes me ashamed to make even these criticisms.”
  — Maxwell Perkins [08:15]

• “The Great Gatsby seems to seize and hold their attention and carry them through.”
  — James West [25:14]

• “Fitzgerald's first drafts in manuscript were often rather pedestrian... that's what it became in the final version that he published.”
  — James West [35:12]

• “Fitzgerald needed the parties and the lifestyle and all of that. It kind of fueled his fiction in a way.”
  — James West [41:14]

Final Thoughts

This episode of The History of Literature offers an in-depth exploration of The Great Gatsby's centennial celebration, illustrating why the novel remains a pivotal work in American literature. Through insightful analysis and expert commentary from James West, listeners gain a richer understanding of Fitzgerald's masterpiece, its historical context, and its lasting influence on both readers and the literary landscape.

For more information on the centennial edition, visit historyofliterature.com and follow The History of Literature on Facebook.