Nick's home is referred to as a bungalow particularly as
"weather-beaten" and "cardboard". It also pales in comparison to the mansion next door
and the others around him. I think this truly demonstrates Nick's character throughout
the work because although he narrates, he is by far the least interesting of the three.
His flaws are few and his action is less than exciting. He has no extrodinary affair,
nor does he have a dicey marriage. He just exists to tell us this story. He seems pushed
around by the other characters a bit, just as his house is beaten by the weather.
Although his home is modest, which also matches him, it does seem to possess some great
character. At least he has a Finn to serve him and details that make his home the
feature of the story as it serves to give Daisy and Gatsby their reunion
moment.
The Buchanan's place is gaudy and full of money.
Using the idea of material wealth makes great sense as their homes match their
characters, but beyond that, all of the Buchanans items are so superficial, just like
they are. Tom cares about no one but himself. Daisy too, hides behind the material items
they possess. Tom uses his home to help him start conversation. He even says, "I've got
a nice place here." Normal people with at least an ounce of humility would let the
onlooker make such a comment. This further shows Tom's character, he is not about to let
anyone define him, he intends to do that himself, often to his own
detriment.
When Nick first encounters the Buchanan's home,
the windows are wide open and everything is painted as if it is floating, except when
Tom is around, then doors and windows get closed and the environment becomes controlled.
I think this is a reflection of the marriage between the Buchanans. Daisy is
free-spirited and ready to have a good time, but is bound by the hulking brutality of
her husband.
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