In Richard Bachman's novel "The Running Man," the concept of hope and the pursuit of dreams is starkly challenged. The quote "Maybe there wasn't even a rainbow, let alone a pot with gold" suggests a sense of disillusionment. It implies that the things we chase, believing they will bring us happiness or fulfillment, may not exist at all. The imagery of a rainbow and the mythical pot of gold serves to illustrate that sometimes the dreams we hold onto can be illusions.

This reflects a deeper commentary on society's promises and the harsh realities individuals face. The protagonist grapples with stark truths that reveal the futility of searching for something that may not be there. This sentiment resonates throughout the narrative, highlighting themes of desperation, survival, and the often misleading nature of hope, which can lead to profound introspection and a reevaluation of one's goals and desires.