Why does Fitzgerald include lyrics from The Sheik of Araby?

Answer 1

Fitzgerald includes lyrics from "The Sheik of Araby" to evoke the themes of romantic longing and the allure of the exotic, which resonate with the characters' experiences in "The Great Gatsby." The song reflects the era's fascination with unattainable love and the seductive nature of wealth and desire. By incorporating these lyrics, Fitzgerald enhances the mood and underscores the characters' emotional states, particularly Gatsby's idealized view of love and his yearning for Daisy. This musical reference also situates the narrative within the cultural context of the 1920s, enriching the novel's exploration of aspiration and disillusionment.