The most famous tragedy

In October 1922, after the birth of their only child, Frances Scott “Scottie” Fitzgerald, the Fitzgeralds moved to Great Neck, New York, on Long Island. Their neighbors in Great Neck included such newly wealthy personages as writer Ring Lardner, actor Lew Fields and comedian Ed Wynn. These figures were all considered to be nouveau riche (new rich), unlike those who came from Manhasset Neck, which sat across the bay from Great Neck—places that were home to many of New York’s wealthiest established families. This real-life juxtaposition gave Fitzgerald his idea for “West Egg” and “East Egg”. In the novel, Great Neck (Kings Point) became the “new money” peninsula of West Egg and Port Washington (Sands Point) became the “old money” East Egg. Several Gold Coast mansions in the area served as inspiration for Gatsby’s estate including Land’s End, Oheka Castle,[66] and the since-demolished Beacon Towers.

• In October 1922, after the birth of their only child, Frances Scott “Scottie” Fitzgerald, the Fitzgeralds moved to Great Neck, New York, on Long Island. Their neighbors in Great Neck included such newly wealthy personages as writer Ring Lardner, actor Lew Fields and comedian Ed Wynn. These figures were all considered to be nouveau riche (new rich), unlike those who came from Manhasset Neck, which sat across the bay from Great Neck—places that were home to many of New York’s wealthiest established families. This real-life juxtaposition gave Fitzgerald his idea for “West Egg” and “East Egg”. In the novel, Great Neck (Kings Point) became the “new money” peninsula of West Egg and Port Washington (Sands Point) became the “old money” East Egg. Several Gold Coast mansions in the area served as inspiration for Gatsby’s estate including Land’s End, Oheka Castle,[66] and the since-demolished Beacon Towers.