How does The Grapes of Wrath compare with The Great Gatsby in the presentation of America in the 20th century?

Undeniably, one of the most noticeable differences between the texts is that they portray America in vastly contrasting economic states. Not only was the 20s a significantly richer and more lavish decade, but The Great Gatsby is also from the perspective of a character who socialises predominantly with upper-class, old money Americans. Fitzgerald’s writing romanticizes extravagance and hedonism through the descriptions of Gatsby’s lavish and opulent parties, where attendees are reckless and spontaneous, whereas the Grapes of Wrath antitheses this behaviour and lifestyle. The Joad family (a microcosm of thousands of Americans at the time) are scraping by on the minimum, and barely have enough to get themselves to California. The depressing backdrop of the dust bowl epitomizes the poverty that swept across America in the 30s during the Great Depression. Therefore both authors present juxtaposing descriptions, in that in The Great Gatsby America is superficial and selfish, and focused intensely on a minority, whereas in the Grapes of Wrath there is a sense of pride and strength in the families who have nothing but a shared solidarity and empathy with thousands of others in their situation. This contrast is down to each author focusing on different classes and nation-wide economic situations.