What Does The Red Hunting Hat Symbolize

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The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger entwines an assortment of symbols into the book that provides the basis for the rest of the story, as well as the development of theme. Salinger uses symbolism to develop the story and create an overall message of the novel, specifically using the red hunting hat. The author implements us with hints, letting us know that the hat represents his loneliness and desire for friendship. Throughout the novel, J.D. Salinger establishes this item into a theme by way of Holden and his actions. To begin with, the red hunting hat signifies Holden’s desire for friends, but also his alienation (Lorcher). Throughout the book, Holden is seen with his hat, both on and off of him; however, Holden mostly wears his …show more content…

In the beginning of chapter 8, Holden calls David and two girls from a magazine phonies (Salinger 53). He wants to be David, with the girls hanging on him and posses accentuated body characteristics. These are traits that he presumes will make him better blend and fit into his community. All the importance of the red hunting hat ties together the theme of the novel. J.D. Salinger has taken the time to develop this item and make it the story. Starting with the very beginning of the novel, readers can tell that the hat is Holden’s security. He always has to have it with him and he most always has it on his head. It’s intriguing that a hat, at sixteen years old, became a prized item. Even though the hat is intended to be for his eyes only, Holden does say that he looks good in the hat (Salinger 18). His confidence is stored within the hat itself, but as time goes on, the hat holds something …show more content…

Looking at the aforementioned, Holden wears the red hunting hat to drive people the other way. He wants to have people in his life, but he can’t seem to figure out how since he doesn’t fit in. The hat is Holden’s way of showing individuality; however, he uses this and his alienation to make himself seem like he is above everyone else (Themes, Motifs, & Symbols). Since the hat also represents his desire for friends and loneliness, Holden begins to get close with people, but then the protection of the hat makes him push people away. (Themes, Motifs, &

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