Free Essays – Catcher in the Rye
Free Essays – Catcher in the Rye

Free Essays – Catcher in the Rye

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  • Pages: 3 (588 words)
  • Published: December 12, 2018
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Still Relevant to Today's Youth: The Catcher in the Rye

The Catcher in the Rye, a novel by J. D. Salinger, remains relevant to today's youth as it provides a unique perspective from a teenager living in 1950's New York. The story unfolds with hints of Holden Caulfield being in a psychiatric institution and recounts events that took place three days before Christmas through flashbacks.

Unlike most novels that cover a longer time period, this novel stands out for its focus on just three days. However, even within this brief timeframe, we gain a complete understanding of the main character and other individuals through Holden's thoughts and emotions towards them. No details are left out. Personally, I particularly enjoy Chapter 3 of the book where Holden interacts with and depicts Ackley. This part resonates with me as I have a neighbor w

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ho resembles Ackley in certain ways and frequently invades my personal space without permission.

In The Catcher in the Rye, the author portrays a character who engages in playful behavior with Holden's belongings, rearranging them in different locations. This person also demonstrates a lack of regard for personal space by cutting their nails all over Holden's room and standing in his reading light while talking. Additionally, they disregard oral hygiene by never brushing their teeth. I especially appreciate the distinctive descriptions of other characters, like one individual who refuses to move out of your light when asked and another who vigorously shakes hands, believing that shaking gently is a sign of weakness. Although the novel is set in the fifties, I can still connect with the protagonist and others in his age group because we share slan

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and similar experiences.

The characters in this novel are depicted with such humanity that nearly anyone can identify with them. I found it exciting to anticipate Holden's interactions with new and familiar characters, eager to see how the author had developed their individual traits. The novel doesn't depend on elaborate sentence structures or intricate language; its brilliance lies in the author's perceptive bond with the reader and the characters. Salinger further amplifies these insights by strategically utilizing italics to emphasize meaning and tone, as if the spoken dialogue were being heard. For instance, on page 132, Holden declares, "In the first place, we're

This novel evokes genuine, heartfelt emotions from the reader due to the strong connection they can establish with the characters. The reader may feel deep sadness if Phoebe, Holden's younger sister, were to pass away at the end, unlike in other novels where a character's death has less impact. The pivotal event that profoundly affects all others is Holden Caulfield failing at Pencey. All other events in the book are insignificant, ensuring that the plot remains simple and allows for the protagonist's introspective thoughts to take center stage. Ultimately, what makes this novel exceptional and unparalleled is the unique personality of its protagonist.

He is easily bothered by the little things people do, "God, how I hate it when somebody yells 'Good Luck!' at me when I'm leaving somewhere." (page 202), yet he loves to drive others crazy, "You weren't allowed to smoke in the dorm, but you could do it late at

The protagonist also appears to possess existentialist traits. All his actions are governed by his personal desires and preferences. Holden is such a

authentic character that he resembles an actual individual penning his own life story. I highly suggest this book to everyone.

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