Here's how it works:
* The Allusion: The narrator, Nick Carraway, describes Gatsby as having "come up in the world" thanks to Dan Cody, a man who "took him out of the 'valley of ashes'" and gave him a life of luxury.
* The Significance: The mention of "Dan Cody" isn't just a random name. It alludes to the biblical story of the Israelites wandering in the "valley of ashes" (a reference to the desert) for forty years after their escape from Egypt.
* The Meaning: This allusion suggests that Gatsby, despite his extravagant wealth, is still a man trapped in a kind of "desert" of his own making. He has escaped his humble beginnings, but he hasn't truly found fulfillment or happiness. This connection to biblical imagery further enhances the themes of wealth, loneliness, and the search for meaning that run throughout the novel.
This specific allusion adds depth and meaning to Gatsby's character and highlights the complex layers of his personality. It also foreshadows the ultimate outcome of his pursuit of wealth and happiness, which will ultimately lead to tragedy.