The Green Light

The novel is presenting the truth behind the twenties and creating an atmosphere which has earned a permanent place in American literature. His novel works on many different levels, giving us unforgettable characters and events on one, as well as referring to the problems of American wealth and spirituality on another. And most importantly, what on earth is that mysterious green light? The first symbol in this book was the mysterious green light. When Gatsby first mentions the light, we see him reaching out for it, almost worshipping it. We find out later that this green light is at the end of Daisy's dock, is a symbol for Gatsby's dreams, and the hope for the future. Green is the color of promise, hope, and renewal, so it is fitting that Gatsby's dream of a future with Daisy be shown physically in the novel by this green light. However, Gatsby's dream is tarnished by his material possessions. This will soon corrupt him. He dream will soon die because of Daisy and Tom's carelessness and superficiality. At first we are given the green light as a symbol for the hope and promise of the future, but later it is considered the "foul wasteland" of the present. This can be interpreted as the foul, material-driven world that the main characters live in and which helps to destroy Gatsby's dream. Soon Daisy tells Gatsby that he reminds her of an advertisement. This statement shows that Daisy does not like Gatsby for himself but for the superficial illusion he represents. He also advertises eternal youth, wealth, and beauty constantly, which goes along with Gatsby's youthful dream of Daisy.(http://www.novelguide.com/thegreatgatsby/metaphoranalysis.html)