Which famous American novel features the symbol of a green light?

The correct answer is rooted in the profound significance of the green light in "The Great Gatsby." This symbol represents Gatsby's unreachable dreams and aspirations, particularly his desire for Daisy Buchanan. The green light, situated at the end of Daisy's dock across the bay, serves as a beacon of hope for Gatsby, embodying his longing and the idealized version of the American Dream that he pursues throughout the novel.

F. Scott Fitzgerald uses this symbol to highlight themes of ambition, desire, and the elusive nature of the American Dream. The light's distance also symbolizes the unattainability of these dreams, suggesting that while one may strive for a goal, the reality may be far removed from the dream itself.

In contrast, the other novels mentioned do not employ a green light as a symbol. "The Catcher in the Rye" focuses on themes of identity and alienation without such a specific emblem. "The Grapes of Wrath" emphasizes social injustice and the plight of the working class, while "Beloved" deals with the haunting legacy of slavery. Each of these novels has its unique set of symbols and themes, making "The Great Gatsby" the clear choice when it comes to the specific symbol of a green light.