What character trait is central to Jay Gatsby in The Great Gatsby?

The central character trait of Jay Gatsby in "The Great Gatsby" is best represented by desperation. Throughout the novel, Gatsby's actions are driven by a profound yearning for acceptance and love, particularly in his pursuit of Daisy Buchanan. His lavish parties and immense wealth are not merely symbols of success; they are expressions of his relentless desire to recreate the past and win Daisy back. This desperation stems from his idealistic vision of love and the lengths he is willing to go to achieve his dreams, revealing the darker aspects of his character and the American Dream itself. Gatsby's ultimate downfall highlights how his desperation can lead to tragic consequences, illuminating one of the novel's key themes regarding the pursuit of unattainable goals.