When I first met Gatsby, I was perplexed by all of the rumors I would hear about his social status and rise to fame here in West Egg. Now what to believe and what not to believe were questions in themselves that begged for answers, but what's even more important is what is the truth behind this mysterious man. Easy to believe I was startled by the story Gatsby told me about his past...
James Gatz met Dan Cody in Lake Superior when he was just 17 years old. He was loafing around the area when he saw the Tuolomee anchored. Seeing the opportunity, the man suddenly became Jay Gatsby and took a rowboat to warn the 50 year old Dan Cody of a possible storm approaching. To Gatsby, staring at that yacht was like seeing his dream right in front of him. Luckily, Gatsby is the kind of guy with enough drive to seize the opportunities he's given. After interviewing with the wealthy millionaire and flashing him a charming smile, Gatsby became his "steward, mate, skipper, secretary, and even jailor". He became Cody's right-hand man, helping him when "Dan Cody drunk" took over "Dan Cody" sober. This lasted for 5 years until Dan Cody's death, suspiciously a week after Ella Kaye boarded his yacht in Boston.
One can easily see the influences Cody had for Gatsby. Because Cody was such a heavy drinker, his bad example taught Gatsby not to excessively drink. He also gave Gatsby hope and experience with wealth. I believe the most important influence, however, was helping James Gats become Jay Gatsby. It is because of Dan Cody that the vague contour of Jay Gatsby matured into the successful man today; the great Gatsby.
(source:http://www.fcps.edu/westspringfieldhs/academic/english/1project/99gg/99gg2/charlis2.htm)
