1. In this chapter Fitzgerald writes about the Valley of Ashes. He also mentions dust and smoke (at the party). All three of these reappear numerous times throughout the novel. What could they symbolize?

The dust mentioned in the novel represents the destruction of the dreams of the common man.

The valley of ashes symbolizes the struggle of the poor living in the dirty ashes

Explanation:

The author uses the term dust and smoke throughout the chapter, from the Valley of Ashes to Myrtle's death. The destruction of the dream of the common man is mentioned as dust in this chapter. During the Myrtle's death scene, the term dust symbolizes the lost dreams of a woman and what Myrtle has lost.

The valley of ashes is described as the dirty place with many building and factories. The valley of ashes symbolizes the struggle of the poor living in the dirty ashes.

the characters in string all have major secrets that they strive to avoid revealing throughout the play.

if this is referring to star wars, han shot first.