Early carousels of 19th century America were advertised as highly recommended by physicians as an aid in circulating the blood. This made the ride fun and beneficial for all ages. Carousels became extremely popular around this time, and although there were many around America, one of the most well known machines was in Holden Caulfield's, the protagonist in Catcher In The Rye by J.D. Salinger, hometown, New York. During the carousel scene, Holden ventures away from childhood to adulthood, and comes to many realizations about himself and others, especially acknowledging that becoming an adult is not a bad thing, but a new experience.

Prior to the carousel scene Holden is lost, confused, and feels alone. Holden is walking down