In The Great Gatsby, describe the ambiguity in Nick's initial descriptions of Gatsby in Chapter I.

Nick discusses Gatsby twice in Chapter I, in the beginning of the novel and at the conclusion of the chapter. His first references seem both ambiguous and contradictory. He points out that in some way he thoroughly disapproved of Gatsby: "[he] represented everything for which I have an unaffected scorn." However, Nick adds that "Gatsby turned out all right at the end." The only clues Nick gives us in understanding this contradiction are Gatsby's "extraordinary gift for hope" and his "romantic readiness."

Nick sees Gatsby for the first time at the end of Chapter I. Gatsby stands alone on his lawn, reaching out "in a curious way" toward the ocean and a green light across the bay. It appears to Nick that Gatsby trembles. Again, Nick's description of Gatsby creates many questions for the reader. Gatsby is presented as a mystery from the very beginning of the novel.