<span>As a general rule, really great novels contain B. universal truths. Universal truths are themes such as love, hate, trust, betrayal, etc., something which exists all over the world and can be applicable to any nation in any part of the globe. It refers to something that every single person will understand and recognize, which makes a novel great. It can have only one setting, the plot doesn't have to be complex, and there can be as many conflicts as the author wants, but universal truths have to be included if the novel is to be considered great.</span>
I think it’s figure of speech lol
Gatsby believes he is able to repeat the past because of the dreamlike state he lives in, having no firm grip on reality. Gatsby must believe that he can repeat the past in order to make the idea of regaining Daisy (even though she has since married Tom and had a child) a realistic possibility.
