"The Catcher in the Rye"
By: J.D. Salinger
Repetition is used constantly throughout the novel. One of the most repeated phrases is, "That killed me." Written on multiple pages within each chapter (Ex. 55, 67,68,74,77,80, 86, 87, etc.). If interpreted literally one would assume that Holden had actually died, but in truth, the phrase serves as an ironic exaggeration. Other techniques constantly used throughout the work include contrast such as in the phrase "old Phoebe (Page 68)." In truth, Phoebe is only in elementary school, yet Holden once more presents an exaggeration. Further exaggerations are found in the similes which include the description of knowing Jane like a book (76) and of describing women as violins (93). The constant use of exaggerations such as those presented in the literary techniques and those found in Holden's own lies to other characters suggests that the reader must look critically at the story and analyze it with an understanding of the perception it is drawn from. For, exaggerations can distort
details and thus the story itself.
The most crucial element of a story is the words with which it is told. In J.D. Salinger's "The Catcher in the Rye" diction act as the most defining literary technique. Conversational, repetitive, and informal, the diction illustrates the education level and qualities of Holden. Additionally, it presents similes and irony.
Repetition is used constantly throughout the novel. One of the most repeated phrases is, "That killed me." Written on multiple pages within each chapter (Ex. 55, 67,68,74,77,80, 86, 87, etc.). If interpreted literally one would assume that Holden had actually died, but in truth, the phrase serves as an ironic exaggeration. Other techniques constantly used throughout the work include contrast such as in the phrase "old Phoebe (Page 68)." In truth, Phoebe is only in elementary school, yet Holden once more presents an exaggeration. Further exaggerations are found in the similes which include the description of knowing Jane like a book (76) and of describing women as violins (93). The constant use of exaggerations such as those presented in the literary techniques and those found in Holden's own lies to other characters suggests that the reader must look critically at the story and analyze it with an understanding of the perception it is drawn from. For, exaggerations can distort
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