Adolescence is a time of development, often characterized by a desire to understand society while struggling to leave childhood. Holden Caulfield is a troubled character who regularly finds conflict with others and himself during adolescence. In The Catcher in the Rye, J.D. Salinger argues that Holden struggles to complete the transition from childhood to adulthood, yet never fully completes that transition. This is displayed through his childish behavior, immature language, and enduring symbols. Salinger uses Holden’s childish character to display his attachment to childhood. Holden is expelled at every school that he goes to, which in turn creates a negative feeling towards education. Despite Penceys reputation for molding boys into men, …show more content…
The author uses a sarcastic tone to display Holden’s perception about people around him. This is evident when Holden notices Stradlater “was finished combing his goddam gorgeous hair” (33). The use of the word “goddam” is prevalent throughout the book, characterizing Holden as someone with a limited vocabulary and a narrow view of the world. He makes no effort to change his tone or vocabulary, even when talking to people like Phoebe. Sarcasm is a common way of revealing Holden’s feelings in the story. He meets a woman whom he dances with, saying, “What a lady, boy. A queen, for Chrissake,” (72). Although Holden does not mention it to the woman, he is annoyed by her lack of interest. Instead of politely mentioning it, he continues to remain dancing with her, only trying to prevent boredom. This mindset is persistent throughout the book, which highlights Holden’s refusal to change himself. Holden has difficulties when interacting with strangers. After Holden and Sally go to a play, Sally recognizes someone on the way out. Holden describes the person as a “jerk” that “had one of those very phony, Ivy League voices, one of those very tired, snobby voices,” (128). Without even getting to know this person, Holden automatically starts to insult him using some of his favorite words like “phony”, key parts of Holden’s restricted jargon. One of the main reasons that this happens,