By Megan Coote and Abbie Wright
The Great Gatsby is a much-loved classic, written by F. Scott Fitzgerald and originally published in 1925 by Scribner. The book is set against the backdrop of Jazz Age New York, a period characterised by excess, glamour and social change. The book tells the tale of self-made millionaire, Jay Gatsby, and his pursuit of Daisy Buchanan, a wealthy young woman Gatsby has loved throughout his youth.
Fitzgerald delves into themes of wealth, class, illusion and the American Dream. Numerous editions of the novel have been published with innovative cover designs, inspired by the book’s themes and characters. These are some of the novel’s most notable editions that have been published across the years.
Original Edition - 1925
The Great Gatsby’s original 1925 cover is arguably still its most memorable iteration. The central image of a woman’s face floating above the city skyline was painted by Francis Cugat and its links with the novel have been discussed by various literary historians. Some believe this image represents the infamous “eyes of T.J Eckleburg” - a motif that plays a large role in the themes of deceit and secrecy in Fitzgerald's novel. Others believe the face to be that of Daisy, the woman who is the central focus of Gatsby’s life. The single tear that seems to be below this woman’s eyes also adds further evidence to the face belonging to Daisy, as readers soon learn that she is one of the more tragic characters. The skyline below the face is blurred and looks as though it is a mix of city and golden fireworks, highlighting the lavish parties that Gatsby hosts.
This bold image is paired with an attractive dark blue background to make this novel stand out, perfect for the ‘Roaring Twenties’ where bold and colourful art and literature were becoming the norm. The classic font and the gold, blue and white that make up the cover’s colour palette also add to the decadence and themes of luxury. Ultimately, The Great Gatsby’s original cover design does well to catch the reader's eye, and its abstract approach to its artwork makes it a unique cover that has held the test of time. This edition has also been replicated over the years and remains a favourite for many fans of this classic novel.
Penguin Modern Classic Edition - 2000
The cover design for the Penguin Modern Classic Edition is character-focused, unlike most other editions that emphasise the glitz and glamour of the period. While the extravagance is toned down, subtle hints remain. There is still an air of decadence, with alcohol and cigarettes on the table and both characters are dressed well. The characters, who you can safely assume represent Daisy Buchanan and Jay Gatsby, are the centre of attention, drawing the reader’s focus to their relationship. The cover’s composition makes you feel as though you are interrupting an intimate moment between the two. Gatsby’s face remains hidden, adding an air of mystery, while Daisy’s expression appears content and loving. This choice acknowledges Daisy’s pivotal role. Her presence drives Gatsby’s actions and fuels his pursuit of the American Dream. Whilst Gatsby might be the titular character, Daisy is his motivation.
The feeling of looking in from the outside mirrors the novel’s structure; the narrator, Nick Carraway, is an outsider who becomes immersed in Gatsby’s extravagant world. The cover captures this outsider’s perspective emphasising the personal moments behind the façade. The lack of colour and sepia tone used again evokes an understated and nostalgic feel. Overall, this edition strips back the extravagance and allure - much like the novel, which explores the disillusionment and dark side of the American Dream.
Wordsworth Classic Edition - 2019
The Wordsworth Classic Edition beautifully captures the novel’s essence and the ‘Roaring Twenties’, making it the perfect collector's copy. This edition features an Art Deco design, characterised by bold geometric shapes, which was prominent during the twenties, which is the novel’s setting, adding character to the design. The gold foiling adds luxury, again fitting with the book’s theme of excess, and mirroring the extravagant parties and lavish lifestyles depicted throughout the book.
In the centre of the design is a hand holding a large feather fan, reminiscent of the twenties, as these were carried by flappers on celebratory occasions and symbolised the fashion and free nature of women during this era. This edition is simple but effective and would make the ideal gift for Great Gatsby lovers.