J.b. Salinger s The Catcher s The Rye - 1319 Words

J.D. Salinger’s Use of Symbolism in The Catcher in the Rye J.D. Salinger is well known for his works. His most famous being The Catcher in the Rye. Two other of his famous works include Nine stories and Franny and Zooey. J.D Salinger is also well known for his sense of humor that he includes inside of his books. The Catcher in the Rye has become an essential work to be studied in academic literature and its course of study. This book entails many uses of symbolism throughout the book. Symbolism is used in the book when a character’s words, actions, or events have a deeper meaning in the context of the entire book. J.D. Salinger used this technique and gave parts of the book a different meaning, making events more significant. Symbolism is mostly used in this book to convey Holden’s thoughts and feelings and help us better understand his personality (Gaisford). The Catcher in the Rye is about Holden Caulfield, a 16-year-old boy, who is expelled from school, Pencey Prep. Holden being expelled is expected the story starts off in a mental institution where he is undergoing treatment. Holden is a very depressed boy and this leads him to continuously get expelled from schools. Holden’s younger brother, Allie, died of Leukemia when he was eleven (Salinger 38). This is a major part of Holden’s depression. Holden also has a younger sister, Phoebe, and he puts most of his trust in her. Holden does not tell his parents about being expelled from