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Peter He
Mr. Fagan
ENG4U
Mar.03 2021
Character analysis on Tom Buchanan
Social expectations and norms often limit people’s public statements. As a result, most
people tend not to express their true opinions and feelings in front of others in order to avoid
judgment or conflict. However, in The Great Gatsby by Fitzgerald, Tom stands out as a singular
character because he is consistently honest with his thoughts and opinions. He is always brave
enough to truly be himself and express exactly how he feels and what he thinks.
Firstly, Tom is a person who does not see the need to flatter others; when Tom has a
conversation with others, he does not say anything with the intent to make others feel good. For
example, when Nick and Tom discuss Nick’s job, Nick mentions the firm he is trading bonds
with and Tom has no knowledge about the company. Instead of flattering Nick and vaguely
showing kindness, Tom dismisses the firm: ‘“Never heard of them,” he remarked
decisively’(15). People are accustomed to praising others and offering compliments about things
that they barely have any understanding of. Tom’s words are seemingly harsh and in conflict
with the social expectations but reflect his true thoughts and feelings. Even though his remark
annoys Nick, he feels no need to attempt to offer encouragement or to compliment Nick on his
new career.
In addition, Tom is a truthful person since he has the courage to express his feelings in
public. When Tom accidentally hurts Daisy’s finger, Daisy calls Tom a “great, big, hulking
physical specimen”(17). Rather than ignore Daisy’s comment, Tom immediately responds,
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making his feelings apparent: ‘“I hate that word hulking,” objected Tom crossly, “even in
kidding”’ (17). Many individuals would not have wanted to reveal to others that their feelings
have been hurt, but Tom has no such reluctance. He is completely comfortable in being who he
is and is unconcerned with what others think about him. Although Tom is an unpleasant
character, he has the courage to choose to be completely open about who he is and never
pretends to be something he is not in front of other people.