Well-worded comparison with the writing style in Gatsby. I found myself expecting that same propulsion throughout the novel whilst reading Book 1 and enjoying the whirlwind of Romantic drama. The subsequent slow-burning investigation into and development of the characters imperfections, deep flaws, and psychological wounds is what makes this the more emblematic novel of the Jazz-Age! Re your comment on gender roles: I also considered this a lot while reading, but didn't come to many conclusions. I wondered in many moments whether Fitzgerald intended to create empathy or antipathy towards Dick or Nicole.