Holden Caulfield Alienation Analysis

Holdens disturbance to alienation The novel Catcher in the Rye, was written by J.D.Salinger. Where he vividly tells the story of the narrator, Holden Caulfield and his negligence towards becoming an adult in his alienated society. Holden’s continuous struggle of developing into an adult can be attributed to his persistent efforts towards preserving his innocence. Maturing into an adult where one loses their innocence occurs at various ages. However, that transition could generate a multitude of emotional reactions. Holden finds the loss of innocence disturbing, he is not able to grasp the concept of change. Which also influences his actions and the way he perceives various situations and memories. Holden is frequently victimized by society

This can be attributed to his problems of sexuality, relationships and maintaining a good rapport with the people he encounters. Not to mention the various chances he has received through both physical and emotional relationships. If he had formed those relationships he would no longer be alienated in society. Although, he fears society’s concept of complexity and unpredictability. In contrast to his own preferences of uniformity and certainty, that creates his own interpretations of a utopia. Therefore, Holden reminisces about the Museum of Natural History saying “The best thing, though, in that museum was that everything always stayed right where it was. Nobody'd move.” (Salinger 135). He wholeheartedly admires the museum and the significance it contributes when looking at his childhood. Moreover, his admiration for innocence could be recognized in his previous relations with both Jane and Phoebe. Jane embellishes the innocence that Holden himself cherishes and idolizes. "Jane Gallagher. Jesus ... I couldn't get her off my mind. I really couldn't.” (Salinger 37) he stresses her significance. With that in mind, Holden continually thinks of her in almost every interaction he has with a female. He knowingly demands a girl like Jane, who he finds both attractive and respectful. In contrast to Phoebe, who he presents his ideologies of childhood to subsequently affect her life. However, Phoebe accepts the reality of real world relationships unlike her brother. As basic human interactions and unpredictable replies are applicable to anyone. Holden’s manic search for companionship enables him to seek closure with his alienation in society. Henceforth, his meaningless encounters that results in no emotional stability that he requires. Holden's inability to be introspective, acts as both a shield to understanding his mentality and self-isolation behaviours. His