Smile like you mean it

After Nick has the slight embarrassment of unknowingly talking to the mysterious host, Gatsby breaks into "one of those rare smiles with a quality of eternal reassurance in it, that you may come across four or five times in life" (52). In contrast to the superficial and cynical guests, Gatsby has a genuinely strong, quiet, radiant air about him, which makes him irresistibly appealing even if solely through the subconscious. Although Gatsby attracts many by his wealth and his elaborate parties, Nick finds a deeper understanding of his appeal. Gatsby does not directly draw attention to himself and does not feel the need to become inebriated to mask or forget his past, passion, or problems. He smiles at Nick in a way that makes his guest feel of great importance as if he provides the utmost interest and entertainment. Nick feels as if he is the one being kind to Gatsby and even feels the need to apologize for not recognizing him when in reality Gatsby is the understanding one. Gatsby also has an independent spirit and what appears to be a general love for everyone he encounters, but he needs them less. During the party, Nick sees his neighbor "standing alone on the marble steps and looking from one group to another with approving eyes" (54). Not only does Gatsby's sobriety separate him from the crowd, but also his philanthropic "extraordinary gift for hope" sets him in stark contrast with any cynacism. Nick's innocent and somewhat naive nature connected with Gatsby's pure loving smile, which opened his eyes to a fresh optimism.