Need help with my thesis statement: Does it have to be just one sentence?

[JoanaPhillips]

I'm working on this paper about the symbolism of the green light in The Great Gatsby. My professor keeps saying "one sentence thesis, one sentence thesis!" But I feel like my idea is too complex for just one sentence!

My current draft is: "The green light in The Great Gatsby represents Gatsby's hope for the future, but it also symbolizes the unattainable nature of the American Dream, showing that the past can't be repeated."

That's already a lot packed in there, and it feels like a run-on. I want to add something about how it connects to the eyes of Dr. T.J. Eckleburg, but there's no room!

Is the "one sentence" rule actually a rule, or is it more of a guideline for clarity? Can a thesis be two or even three sentences if your argument is complex? I feel like I'm trying to fit an ocean into a teacup. What do you all think? Has anyone gotten away with a two-sentence thesis?

 

[Anthony]

Joana, your thesis is actually really good! But maybe combine it differently: "Through the green light's representation of Gatsby's hope and the unattainable American Dream, Fitzgerald reveals that pursuing the past is ultimately destructive." That's one sentence and flows better imo