Gold symbolizes rulership in Nostromo, which makes it somewhat strange
that the ultimate ruler, Guzman Bento, receives "gilt." Perhaps this
is a reference to the false, coerced nature of his authority. Or, to stretch somewhat,
it might reflect the notion that Bento's rulership is an outward show, because
fundamentally it is only a means by which he serves his overmastering dream-ideal
of Government, which is the real ruler. (General Montero, who desires personal
rule for its own sake, is seen bedecked in gold .)