"The Catcher in the Rye"
By: J.D. Salinger
The chapter first begins by describing his mother who is characterized as being constantly nervous and apprehensive. In contrast, his father is then latter described strong willed. Thus, while Holden's mother can be pictured as weak and vulnerable to herself, his father is seen as powerful and intimidating. Such dispositions substantially impact Holden as he sees the insecurities of adults, as represented by his mother, contrasted against their "phony" exteriors, as illustrated by Holden's father, the lawyer. Most influential to the characterization of Holden, however, is his younger sister, Phoebe. For, Phoebe portrays the innocence of youth and the happiness that comes with such genuineness. This true loyalty to the world and one's self as illustrated in her affectionate quality and intelligence, portrays Holden's idea of how all people should be. It is conversations with such an open person that challenges him to understand how good people can die young like his brother, Allie. It is such honesty in action that joins people together and prevents "phoniness" in life.
As the book has progressed, so too have the characters. In the beginning, little was known about those closest to Holden, such as his family. Yet, beginning with Chapter 21, the novel shifts as Holden directly characterizes his family. Through his family, Holden himself is indirectly characterized and comes to be known more personally by the reader.
The chapter first begins by describing his mother who is characterized as being constantly nervous and apprehensive. In contrast, his father is then latter described strong willed. Thus, while Holden's mother can be pictured as weak and vulnerable to herself, his father is seen as powerful and intimidating. Such dispositions substantially impact Holden as he sees the insecurities of adults, as represented by his mother, contrasted against their "phony" exteriors, as illustrated by Holden's father, the lawyer. Most influential to the characterization of Holden, however, is his younger sister, Phoebe. For, Phoebe portrays the innocence of youth and the happiness that comes with such genuineness. This true loyalty to the world and one's self as illustrated in her affectionate quality and intelligence, portrays Holden's idea of how all people should be. It is conversations with such an open person that challenges him to understand how good people can die young like his brother, Allie. It is such honesty in action that joins people together and prevents "phoniness" in life.
As the novel has progressed, Holden seems to grow increasingly depressed. Yet, it is the time spent with his sister in which Holden expresses the first hint of happiness. He states "I felt swell, for a change (159." Through such innocence as his sister, Holden is able to re-grasp himself and his world.
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