Gatsby’s decision to drink so little can be attributed to his firsthand experience with the dangers of alcohol, particularly through his job of looking after Cody during his drunken binges. This experience instilled in Gatsby a healthy respect for the negative effects of excessive drinking, leading him to choose not to become a heavy drinker himself.
One of the main reasons for Gatsby’s aversion to alcohol was his close observation of Cody’s behavior during his drunken episodes. As Gatsby was tasked with taking care of Cody during these times, he likely witnessed the negative consequences of excessive drinking firsthand. He would have seen how alcohol impaired Cody’s judgment, affected his physical and mental well-being, and caused him to engage in reckless behavior. This direct exposure to the consequences of Cody’s drinking habits would have left a lasting impact on Gatsby, serving as a powerful deterrent against developing a similar habit.
Furthermore, Gatsby’s role as Cody’s caretaker during these binges would have required him to deal with the aftermath of Cody’s excessive drinking. He would have had to clean up the mess, handle any potential conflicts or incidents that arose, and potentially even protect Cody from harm. This responsibility would have given Gatsby a practical understanding of the chaos and complications that can arise from heavy drinking, reinforcing his decision to avoid it himself.
Additionally, Gatsby may have recognized that excessive drinking could hinder his pursuit of his dreams and ambitions. As a character driven by his desire for success and social status, he would have understood the detrimental effects of alcohol on one’s ability to focus, make sound decisions, and maintain a disciplined lifestyle. Gatsby likely realized that indulging in heavy drinking would only serve as a hindrance to his goals, potentially jeopardizing his chances of achieving the wealth, status, and love he desired.
Personal experiences and observations can often shape one’s choices and beliefs, and Gatsby’s firsthand involvement in Cody’s drunken binges provided him with a vivid and impactful lesson on the dangers of alcohol. This experience, combined with his determination to achieve his dreams, led Gatsby to make a conscious decision to drink so little and maintain a sober lifestyle.