The author of The Great Gatsby introduces the narrator with this phrase. Nick is a modest and courteous person. It evokes sympathy for Nick among readers. Besides, this quote highlights social issues. One of them is that wealth provides prospects. “All the people in this world hasn’t had the advantages that you’ve had” refers to his middle-class background.
Detailed answer:
Scott Fitzgerald’s quote creates Nick’s neutrality about other characters. The author of The Great Gatsby allows readers to choose their favorite characters and sides. It is for them to decide whether to be on the side of Jay Gatsby or Tom and others. But, Myrtle’s tragic death will break this neutrality.
It is also a social commentary on the times the book was written. The United States experienced a phenomenal economic rise in the 1920s. It means an incredible level of competition. In turn, this led to a change in morals in society. The author urges readers from different segments of society to be less biased towards each other. Moreover, F. Scott Fitzgerald considered The Great Gatsby to be his magnum opus. So, it is possible that this phrase was his life motto.
This quote indicates the failure of the American Dream as a life purpose. The author argues that inherited wealth plays a critical role. More wealth means wider opportunities. It even implies more effortless upward mobility. For example, Gatsby could never become a full-fledged part of the American elite despite his earned fortune. F. Scott Fitzgerald shows all the irony and denial of the American national idea.