The Great Gatsby?

I decided to read The Great Gatsby for inspiration -- I know I was supposed to read it in high school but pretty sure I just rented the movie.  Thinking I would be inspired by stories of youth, wealth and awesomeness, I was in for quite a shock.  Why is it that every American literary classic is so depressing -- Gone with the wind, To kill a mockingbird etc.  Don't get me wrong its a great book but I hope my life of riches and parties doesn't turn out like that.