An idea of individualism was not exactly prominent in 1950’s America. If you didn’t fit into social norms you were not going to fit in. Holden in J.D. Salinger's The Catcher in the Rye is one of those people that did not fit into the society of the time period and had to suffer because of this. Holden’s red hunting hat in J.D. Salinger’s novel The Catcher in the Rye is used to symbolize Holden’s individuality and true self that Holden only shows in isolation.
This red hunting hat is significant in showing Holden’s self-confidence throughout his four day trek. Holden is only really able to express and show his true self in solitary because of the protection it offers from the world. An example of this is when Holden gives this cherished item …show more content…
Holden uses this hat in order to convey an idea of individuality and isolation from others. After first buying this hat Holden admits that it looked, “very corny”(Salinger xxx) but says he, “liked it that way”(Salinger XXXXX). This is an example of Holden very nonchalantly expressing an idea of individualism among his peers. By admitting the hat looks corny but contrasting that statement with the fact that he likes it, Holden conveys that he knows he is different and is comfortable with that as long as he isn’t among others. Another example of this happened as Holden left Pency. Holden says,”I put my red hunting hat on, and turned the peak around to the back, the way I liked it, and then I yelled at the top of my goddam voice,”Sleep tight, ya morons!” I’ll bet I woke up every bastard on the whole floor”(Salenger XXX). Although it seems counterintuitive this arrogance is an example of the individuality and isolation Holden feels. By putting on the hat and calling his classmates morons he is implementing an idea of superiority to his peers. It is this idea of superiority that makes Holden feel isolated and alienated from his peers. This individuality isn't necessarily a good thing and makes Holden alienated. These examples show examples of Holden’s individuality and isolation that is caused by