In the opening chapter of The Great Gatsby, the narrator, Nick Carraway, introduces himself and provides essential background information about his life and upbringing. He hails from a well-to-do family in the Midwest and was educated at Yale. After serving in World War I, Nick moves to West Egg, a wealthy area on Long Island, New York, to pursue a career in the bond business. He rents a modest house next to a grand mansion owned by the elusive Jay Gatsby, a character who becomes central to the story.

Nick sets the stage for the novel by sharing his perspective on wealth and social class, emphasizing his belief in reserving judgment about others. This theme of judgment and the complexity of human nature is crucial as the narrative unfolds. He describes the contrasting lifestyles of the residents in West Egg and East Egg, another affluent area across the bay, highlighting the differences between the newly rich, like Gatsby, and the established aristocracy, represented by characters like Tom and Daisy Buchanan.

During this initial chapter, Nick also recounts a visit to his cousin Daisy Buchanan and her husband, Tom. The Buchanans live in East Egg, in a mansion that reflects their social status. Nick paints a picture of Tom as an imposing figure, characterized by his arrogance and sense of entitlement, which is further emphasized by his affair with another woman. Daisy, on the other hand, is portrayed as charming yet seemingly shallow, embodying the discontent that often accompanies wealth. Their interactions hint at underlying tensions in their marriage, particularly with Tom's infidelity looming over their relationship.

Nick's visit to the Buchanans also introduces Jordan Baker, a professional golfer and a friend of Daisy's. Jordan is depicted as cynical and somewhat dishonest, contrasting with Nick's more earnest nature. The evening culminates in a sense of foreboding when Nick observes the emotional distance between Tom and Daisy, hinting at deeper issues in their lives.

As the chapter concludes, Nick sees Gatsby for the first time standing on the shore, gazing across the bay at a distant green light. This moment is laden with symbolism, foreshadowing Gatsby's longing and the unattainable dream that will be central to the narrative. The chapter sets the tone for the exploration of themes such as the American Dream, love, and the moral decay hidden beneath the glittering surface of society, establishing the groundwork for the tragic story that will unfold.