Because of the ephemeral quality of flowers, as well as their illusionary qualities, the imagery employed by Fitzgerald befits his theme of Appearance vs. Reality. For instance, Daisy's name connotes the white petals of a flower with a yellow center. Just as there is a duplicity to this flower, the character of Daisy appears innocent to the enamored Jay Gatsby who makes her the object of his desire; however, Daisy reveals her corrupt nature as she callously runs over Mrytle Wilson and eschews any culpability. Likewise, the love between Daisy and Gatsby begins in a state of freshness, but ends like a withered flower.
The name Mrytle represents the evergreen shrub that was sacred to Venus, the goddess of Love. However, Mrytle Wilson is a character who does not live up to her name, either. Thus, there is a discrepancy between her name and the reality of the person that exists.
Another flower that is employed in imagery by Fitzgerald is the orchid--a delicate, beautiful flower. Again the use of this flower imagery is indicative of the theme of appearance and reality. For instance, Fitzgerald writes that a woman, known only as a famous actress is "a scarcely human orchid of a woman," is one of the few guests at Gatsby's parties worth talking to, a refined beauty rather than an illusionary one like the other guests at Gatsby's party.
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