"It's a bitch," said Tom decisively. "Here's your money. Go and buy ten more dogs with it."
Chapter 2 · Tom Buchanan
Context
During the dog-buying scene, the seller claims the puppy is male. Tom contradicts him flatly and throws money at him with careless generosity.
Analysis
This moment encapsulates Tom's character in miniature: his need to assert dominance by correcting others, his casual deployment of wealth as power, and his blunt vulgarity. The word 'decisively' underscores his assumption that his version of reality is the only one that matters—he reshapes the world through force of will and money. The instruction to 'buy ten more dogs' reveals the carelessness of the wealthy that Nick will later articulate explicitly. Tom purchases reality itself, not just a dog.
How to Use in Essay
Frequently used in essays on Tom's character, the carelessness of the wealthy, or the way money functions as power and control in the novel.