"The Great Gatsby" F. Scott Fitzgerald

Although we do not formally meet Jay Gatsby until the 3rd chapter, he is the protagonist of the story. The narrator, Nick, is always curious about Gatsby, so we keep a close eye on him throughout the story. Gatsby always throws parties to show off his wealth, but nobody knows how he earned all of his money. Eventually, Nick comes to believe it may be through dishonest deeds. Under it all is his love for Daisy! He fell in love with her before the war, but when he was off fighting, she married Tom Buchanan. He has now done everything in his power to become rich and impress Daisy. I think that is dumb, because if she loves him like he supposedly loves her, then he wouldn't need material things to win her over. That fact is proven when she never attends any of his parties, but is enchanted during their reunion at Nick's house.