New York Times pop culture columnist Frank Rich recently wrote an article that likened George W. Bush, of Yale-bred political infamy, to Tom Buchanan, of Yale-bred Great Gatsby infamy. While not completely appropriate (or even all that analogous), it was an amusing comparison that led me to spend hours wondering who would be the modern day equivalent to Daisy Buchanan, the legendary literary character and love of Jay Gatsby's life.
Daisy is a fabulous floozy. She comes across as superficial, but her demeanor hints at a complexity that is never fully revealed. Pampered and pretty, Daisy's charmed life has a void that cannot be filled by her wealthy husband, her adorable child, or her social-climbing inner circle. Daisy takes her mind off of her lost love by trying to prove to herself that money can by happiness. And by drinking lots of gin.
Daisy Buchanan is Lily van der Woodsen. They both harbor a long-lost love for a social outcast. They both have children who are banished to the background, graced with attention only when it's convenient for them. They both have passive relationships with wealthy, pompous husbands. They both have enviable wardrobes, jewels, and apartments in the city. They both have a taste for fine champagne and strong liquor. Last but certainly not least, they both share names with fresh flowers.
Finally it makes sense why I love Gossip Girl so much; the show mirrors one of my favorite novels of all time. If F. Scott Fitzgerald only knew...
