The Valley of Ashes is located between Long Island and New York City and represents the consequences of individuals' pursuit of wealth and excessive consumption of goods in an attempt to achieve the American dream . Nick describes the Valley of Ashes as a “grotesque place… that fed the thriving golden city… dumped by men moving feebly and already crumbling in the dusty air” to symbolize the terrible impact the dream has on the environment and the vitality of the poor. George, for example, has virtually nothing to begin with, but loses everything, including his wife and his life, because of his livelihood and work for those living the Dream. Additionally, Luhrmann examines the concept that the American dream was highly unattainable for the less privileged. George wishes to leave the Valley of Ashes, revealing to Tom that he “desperately needs money. My wife and I want to go west", but is unable to do so due to Myrtle's death, which demonstrates the failed attempt of those who try to pursue the dream. Furthermore, Luhrmann intensifies the concept of social inequality as the Valley of Ashes “has always been watched by Dr. TJ Eckleberg” with his back to New York City Luhrmann expresses the opinion that those who live in the Valley of Ashes are responsible for the corruption of