One of the themes in the great gatsby is related to american materialism. what is fitzgerald view of american culture? there is a prevailing emptiness and alienation in american culture. there is a prevailing need for money in the lower class that's being met by the upper class in american culture. there is an understanding in american culture that the lower class will have the opportunity to become part of the upper class. there is an understanding in american culture that there is a connectivity amongst people.