Final Great Gatsby

1. Why did the author not reveal Great Gatsby's past until later on in the book?
Fitzgerald delayed telling the reader about Jay's past because in the beginning, Jay was being developed as a wise, collected, mysterious character. Describing his sad, problematic and even in some ways pathetic past right off the bat would leave no veil of sexy mystery over Gatsby and would change his aura as percieved by the reader. He would be leass intrigueing, so the act of unveiling him had to be suspended until the climax.
2. Why did the author make Tom's character have his hulking physique?
It explains his past in football and that he already peaked and has been headed downhill since college. Lumbering, bulky bodies have long been associated with stupidity and slowness, which is mirrored in Tom's mind. Because Tom is cast as the villain of the story, the menacing "cruel" body he possesses helps the reader point him out as the villain from the beginning, or at least be intimidated by him
3. How was Jordan an important part of the book?
Jordan was a less important side character, but still played a role in the story. She was obviously Nick's love interest, and tied the group together with her relationships with all of them. She was an interesting woman to have to compare Daisy to. They are very different, and this comparison helps develop Daisy's character, who is more important to the story.