In "The Great Gatsby," what does the green light represent?

In "The Great Gatsby," the green light represents Gatsby's unattainable dream, specifically his desire for a future with Daisy Buchanan. The light is situated at the end of Daisy's dock and is a symbol of Gatsby's longing and his idealistic aspirations. Throughout the novel, Gatsby believes that if he can achieve wealth and status, he can win Daisy's love back and recreate the past they once shared.

The green light signifies both the allure of his dreams and the harsh reality that they are ultimately unreachable. Gatsby's pursuit of the green light illustrates the overarching theme of the American Dream—the idea that anyone can achieve their desires through hard work and determination. However, as the narrative unfolds, it becomes evident that this dream is elusive. The light, which initially represents hope and possibility, also embodies the futility of chasing dreams that remain perpetually out of reach, highlighting the disparity between aspiration and reality.