Greenlights, the title concept of McConaughey’s book, punctuate the narrative. Borrowing the idea of greenlights from the green traffic signal, McConaughey defines them as “an affirmation of our way” and being as easy and effortless as “a shoeless summer” (Location 171; Location 173). McConaughey, a man who is fortunate enough to have looks and talents recognized by his society, has received numerous greenlights in his life. However, the most satisfying of these were initially “disguised as yellow and red lights,” as McConaughey had to overcome some struggle to get what he wanted (Location 177). For example, McConaughey long wanted to earn his father’s respect and come of age as a man in his eyes. When McConaughey’s father shows him the red light after a failed attempt, it is a signal to McConaughey that he has not yet attained the level of courage or integrity required to impress his father. When he eventually gets there, “the primitive initiation into my father’s regard” is a hard-earned greenlight, and a signal that he is growing up in the right way (Location 1048).

Indeed, a recurring theme in the memoir is that too many greenlights, especially the ones that come too easily, can be counterproductive to creating great art or an adventurous life.