"The idea that to make a man work you've got to hold gold in front of his eyes is a growth, not an axiom. We've done that for so long that we've forgotten there's any other way"

This quote by F. Scott Fitzgerald is a commentary on the concept that individuals are encouraged by cash and material benefits. Fitzgerald recommends that this concept has ended up being so instilled in our society that we have forgotten that there are other methods to inspire people. He suggests that this concept of using cash as an incentive is a fairly brand-new idea, and not an absolute reality. He is recommending that there are other ways to motivate individuals, such as through recognition, appreciation, and significant work. Fitzgerald is motivating us to think outside the box and to check out other ways to inspire people, rather than relying solely on money. He is challenging us to consider more creative and reliable ways to encourage people, rather than depending on the same old methods.