What is the main problem in the Catcher in the Rye?
major conflict The major conflict is within Holden’s psyche. Part of him wants to connect with other people on an adult level (and, more specifically, to have a sexual encounter), while part of him wants to reject the adult world as “phony,” and to retreat into his own memories of childhood.
Why does Holden Caulfield fail school?
Holden was the manager of the fencing team at Pencey. He says he was being kicked out because he was flunking four classes and not applying himself. Holden later explains that he also left Whooton School and Elkton Hills. He says he left because he was surrounded by phonies and that he hated the school.
What is Holden searching for on his journey?
Throughout his journey home, Holden is trying to find himself and avoid growing up into what he believes, a phony or artificial adult. He uses fake identities to interact with others and he tries living the adult life by going to nightclub and associates with prostitutes.
Why does Holden idolize Allie?
In The Catcher in the Rye, Holden idolizes Allie because of his pure, childlike innocence. Since Allie was only a child when he passed away, Holden remembers him as a loving, compassionate brother with a pure soul and loving heart. Holden also admires Allie’s genuine personality and longs for his eternal innocence.
Is Holden meant to be a likeable character?
So to answer weather Holden is a “likable character” or not is actually very hard. Because of his arrogance and conceded attitude you really don’t want to like him, but because of his venerability and sadness, you can’t help but sympathies with him.
Is Holden a reliable narrator?
Overall, Holden is an unreliable narrator through his unstable mentality caused by childhood issues and Allies death as well as through his hypocritical actions, lies, and problematic views. Although Holden seems to be telling the truth, what he believes to be true is not necessarily true.
What is unusual about the way Allie’s death is first alluded to?
What is unusual about the way Allie’s death is first alluded to? He punches the windows out of the garage, and even has some damage to his fist afterwards. He almost punched out the windows on the family car, too.
How is Allie’s death symbolic?
How is Allie’s death symbolic? The loss of Allie represents loss of innocence- Holden then went crazy and punched windows so maybe that’s when Holden went crazy. It also shows the loss of connection because they were friends and now Holden is alone. Allie was keeping Holden grounded and when he died Holden lost it.
Why is Holden so nervous when he asks Stradlater about the date with Jane Why do they fight?
Holden is “nervous” about Stradlater going out with Jane because he knows Stradlater all too well. He respects Jane too much to think of trying to seduce her himself, and he hates to think of an unscrupulous phony as Stradlater taking advantage of the girl he loves.