Narrative Essay On Catcher In The Rye

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McKenzie Duncan Mr. Renouard History 27 April 2014 The Catcher In The Rye J.D Salinger’s, The Catcher in the Rye is perhaps the most intriguing book in American Literature. The Catcher in the Rye’s theme of teenage rebellion has made it a focus in classrooms around the world. The author leaves much of the book for the readers own interpretation. Many people, especially teenage boys have related to the main character's thoughts and feelings, allowing this book to touch and influence those who have read it. Not only does this book reflect its time period, but it greatly influence an entire generation. This book exposes the social changes that occurred in the 1950’s. A culture that was once known for prudence quickly transformed into a new rebellious society. The Catcher in the Rye is a story about a teenage boy who struggles with the harsh reality of growing up and dealing with his own troubles. This story begins with the main character Holden failing out of school. Holden seems to have problems wherever he goes. He writes an essay about his brother Allie who died from leukemia. His roommate insults the essay causing Holden to punch him in the face. He runs away from school after getting into a fight with his roommate. He stays inNew York City until the remainder of the school year is over. On the subway to the city he tells made-up stories to other passengers. Once he makes it to the city he checks himself into Edmont Hotel. While exploring the city he seems to simultaneously explore his sexual curiosity. He says “In my mind, I'm probably the biggest sex maniac you ever saw” (34). He flirts with several women eventually sparking an interest in a prostitute. The Prostitute who goes by the name of, “sunny” gets frustrated ... ... middle of paper ... ...to the American society that social norms were abruptly changing. Holden’s excessive cursing was seen by the public as inappropriate however, Donald P. Costello states, “Most critics who looked at The Catcher in the Rye at the time of its publication thought that its language was a true and authentic rendering of teenage colloquial speech” (251). The Catcher in the Rye, encouraged a social revolution. Robson, L. (2010). To have and to Holden. New Statesman, 139(4987), 50. Costello, Donald P. "The Language Of The Catcher In The Rye." Critical Insights: The Catcher In The Rye (2011): 251-264. Literary Reference Center. Web. 27 Apr. 2014. Catalano, Christina. History Department at Digital Commons @ IWU. Vol. 3. N.p.: n.p., 2002. Digital Commons @ IWU. Web. 27 May 2014. .

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