Symbols and Symbolism in The Catcher in the Rye :: Catcher Rye Essays

Symbolism in The Catcher in the rye whiskey Throughout the novel, the reader is presented with various symbols. The symbols be clearly made discernible by Holdens constant repetition of their importance. The symbols are so of the essence(p) and their symbolism is directly related to the major themes of the novel. Allie, Holdens young chum who died several years earlier, was a key symbol throughout the story. When Holden remembers incidents from his past tense involving Allie, his attitude changes, such as when he writes the composition about Allies baseb each(prenominal) glove or when Holden broke his hand after punching all of the windows after Allie died. He feels that Allie was one of the few people who were not phony in a world full of phonies. More importantly, Allie represents the innocence and puerility that Holden strives to find throughout his multi-day journey. In Holdens opinion, Allie represents the purity that Holden looks for in the world. Holden admits that he ad mires Allie more than he admires Jesus, and even prays to Allie at one point, rather than Jesus. Allie is Holdens role model, whom he judges the rest of the world according to. When Allie dies, it creates agitation in Holdens life. At various points during the course of the novel, Holden inquires as to what happens to the ducks who are normally on a pond in Central Park, when spend comes and the water freezes. As he inquires, the answers he receives range from as unlikely answers as the idea that the ducks still remain there under the ice, unless as the fish do, to uncaring answers such as a round-eyed What a stupid question remark. Despite the answer he gets, Holden is neer satisfied with the reply. Holden doesnt consciously realize that the ducks relate to him. Whether he volition admit it or not, Holden is scared. He has been kicked out of numerous schools, he fuckt get good grades, his parents are angry with him, and he spends his old age wandering through New York City . He doesnt know where he is going to go, reflecting his question about the ducks. Perhaps if he knew where the ducks went, he could total their example. While walking through New York City, Holden arrives at the Museum of Natural History. He remarks about the museum that he likes the glass cases that the museum officials place all of their exhibits in.