Question

Meaning of "We passed a barrier of dark trees, and then the facade of Fifty-ninth Street, a block of delicate pale light, beamed down into the park. Unlike Gatsby and Tom Buchanan, I had no girl whose disembodied face floated along the dark cornices and blinding signs, and so I drew up the girl beside me, tightening my arms. Her wan, scornful mouth smiled, and so I drew her up again closer, this time to my face."

Answer 1

Step-by-step explanation:

This passage is from "The Great Gatsby" by F. Scott Fitzgerald. The narrator, Nick, is describing a moment when he and his companion, a woman, are driving through New York City. They pass a barrier of dark trees and emerge into an area of the city where the buildings are lit up with bright lights, creating a beautiful sight. The reference to Gatsby and Tom Buchanan implies that they had women in their lives who were a part of this glamourous world, while Nick does not. Instead, he draws his female companion closer to him, emphasizing his own desire for a romantic connection.

The use of the word "wan" to describe the woman's smile suggests that it is not a full or genuine smile, but rather a forced one. The phrase "scornful mouth" also implies that there may be something insincere or disdainful about her demeanor. Despite this, Nick is still drawn to her and wants to be closer to her. The passage highlights the contrast between the glamour and beauty of the city and the loneliness and longing that Nick feels.