J. D. Salinger’s The Catcher in the Rye is the...

J. D. Salinger’s The Catcher in the Rye is the quintessential coming-of-age novel. The novel’s protagonist, Holden Caulfield, is a troubled seventeen year old boy with an exceptional tendency to judge others. He struggles with growing up, as all teenagers do, especially as he becomes cognizant of the hypocrisy of the adult world. As Holden ventures into adulthood, critics encounter numerous symbols strategically placed by Salinger. In The Catcher in the Rye, the golden ring and carousel are representative of the consistency and monotony of childhood, the risks necessary to become an adult, and Holden’s realization of his new standing in the adult world. As Holden’s story comes to a close, he accompanies his younger sister, Phoebe, to the†¦show more content†¦Phoebe has just begun to symbolically take those risks and cross the fragile line into adulthood. When Phoebe asks her brother if he would like to ride the carousel, Holden replies, â€Å"‘No, I’ll just watch ya. I think I’ll just watch’† (Salinger 212). The dialogue between these characters represents acceptance of his becoming an adult. This scene in the novel serves as Holden’s metaphorical initiation into the adult world as well as his acceptance of his sister’s growing up. Holden has a tendency to want to protect children, especially Phoebe, from the hypocrisy of adults. He reflects on the pivotal moment by stating, â€Å"I felt so damn happy all of the sudden... I was damn near bawling. I don’t know why† (Salinger 213). Perhaps the reason behind Holden’s indescribable happiness is the release of his anxiety and fear regarding growing up or even sense of pride for Phoebe as she begins to mature and enter the adult world. The Catcher in the Rye is a unique novel that will continue to be adored by many. J. D. Salinger’s writing style involves frequent symbols, both large and small, that allow literary critics engage in a deeper, more meaningful comprehension of the text. The carousel and gold ring are imperative symbols that represent the risks necessary to become a part of the adult world, consistency and monotony of childhood, and Holden’s realization of his new standing as an adult. The Catcher in the Rye will be part of Post-ModernShow MoreRelatedAmerican Literature And Ways They Cultivate Their Own Methods Of Survival Within Their Societies1484 Words   |  6 Pagescusp of childhood and adulthood, the lonely adolescent navigates through a loss of innocence and disenchantment to come to terms with his own male identity, as well as establish his role in society and find purpose as an adult. J.D. Salinger’s novel The Catcher in the Rye follows anti-hero Holden Caulfield through a seemingly innocuous trip in New York City. Throughout his journey, Holden tries desperately to interact with others but often finds himself alienated; in this way, Salinger portrays him