Catcher In The Rye Love Analysis

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Holden’s love life distinctly reflects that of Salinger’s, as he strays from the orthodox motivations of society and hopelessly seeks a steadfast relationship. After physically fighting with Stradlater over his impulsive actions toward Jane, Holden ponders the sincerity of his intentions in having intercourse with her. He disapproves of Stradlater’s careless motives and discovers his personal desire for a long-lasting romantic bond as he states, “I just kept laying there on Ely's bed, thinking about Jane and all. It just drove me stark staring mad when I thought about her and Stradlater parked somewhere in that fat-assed Ed Banky's car. Every time I thought about it, I felt like jumping out the window” (Salinger 26-27). Using a reflective tone, Holden recognizes his desire for a sincere relationship through his shock and …show more content…

. . Salinger [said] they had gotten married partially because the two of them had a telepathic connection” (113). To help cope with his emotional anguish, Salinger looked to a compassionate feminine figure for caring support, which led their relationship to thrive on the basis of a real and profound passion for each other. By finding relief and a sense of belonging in their heartfelt discussions, Salinger alluded to his craving for an honest relationship formed by a powerful connection, which directly correlates to Holden’s ideals of a relationship being genuine and pure. Reflecting the views of Holden, Salinger valued the emotional side of a relationship as well as the strength and sincerity of a romantic bond. Through the examination of Holden’s unstable relationship with Sally Hayes, Trowbridge discusses Holden’s hatred for conformity and examines his hope for a more intimate and true connection: “She fits in beautifully with his genuine leather bags from Mark Cross, but . . . one of the things that most bothers Holden . . . is that appearances seem to have more power than reality. How much money you have, what your social position is

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