One of the key symbols in “The Great Gatsby” is the green light. This multi-faceted piece of symbolism is exploited by author F.Scott Fitzgerald who uses it to construct the traits, actions and goals of major characters in his novel. Situated at the end of Daisy's East Egg dock and barely visible from Gatsby's West Egg lawn, the green light represents Gatsby's hopes and dreams for the future. Daisy Buchanan is part of his dream as he strives to win her back and recapture their lost love. Gatsby’s failure to do so reiterates the illusionary future that the green light represents. The green light is first mentioned in chapter one of the novel. Narrator Nick Carraway sees Gatsby stretching his arms out towards the water. When Nick investigates the reason for Gatsby’s action he sees “nothing except a single green light, minute and far away” (p. ). The light at which Gatsby gazes so wistfully across the water represents his unattainable and illusive dream. For Gatsby, it is a beacon, a north star that points to his great love, Daisy. The green light’s significance for Gatsby is later evident when, standing with Daisy at one of the windows in his mansion, he remarks "You always have a green light that burns all night at the end of your dock" (p. ). Gatsby’s belief in the green light made his dream seem attainable. FIX… However, upon meeting Daisy again, after a five-year separation, Gatsby discovers that sometimes attaining a desired object can bring a sense of loss rather than fulfilment. It is when Gatsby makes this discovery that the green light is no longer the central image of a great dream.
Since parting from Diasy, recapturing their past love has been the focus of Gatsby’s life. However, despite his wealth and extensive possessions he still longs for Daisy. Therefore, the green light stands for all of Gatsby's longings and wants. Gatsby is also portrayed as an optimistic character, however, it is clear that he is focused do much on pursuing his dream, when in reality, that dream is moving further and further away. This is shown in the last page of the novel, when Nick states. “Gatsby believed in the green light, the orgastic future that year by year recedes us.” This quote page 94exhibits the illusionary nature of the green light, and Gatsby’s stubbornness to continue to believe that he and Daisy will be together, when in actual fact, they are moving further and further away from each other.
Throughout the book, Fitzgerald uses the green light to symbolise Gatsby’s goal of achieving Daisy. However, once