Catcher In The Rye Nonconformist Analysis - 700 Words

Is the world a perfect, beautiful place? Or is it filled with selfish, evil people whose conformity is destroying society? According to Holden Caulfield, the main character in J.D. Salinger’s The Catcher in the Rye, the second question models the world in which he lives. Over a span of three days, nonconformist Holden seeks different people to connect with, most of whom are conformists, but is left isolated and unhappy as no one seems to care about him. Through the characterization of Holden Caulfield, JD Salinger develops the theme of society’s disdain of nonconformity, leading to the depression of nonconformists. Leaving nonconformists depressed, Salinger exposes the harsh theme of the rejection of different values as compared to most†¦show more content†¦All throughout the novel, Holden encounters conformity, resulting in him being cynical and unhappy. Using Dick Slagle as an example, Salinger continues the theme of the shunning of nonconformity in society. A past roommate of Holden’s, Dick Slagle feuds with Holden over their suitcases, since Holden has an expensive one whereas he does not. After Holden put his bags under his bed to make Dick feel better about his inexpensive suitcases, Dick â€Å"took [Holden’s suitcases] out and put them back on the rack† (121). Dick wants these suitcases to look like they were his, only to make people think he is wealthy. He is conforming to society’s core value of wealth to fit in, and manipulates Holden to help achieve this goal. Putting his bags under his bed, Holden doesn’t want Dick to be upset that Holden is wealthier than him and wants a connection with him, since he feels lonely. However, Dick’s main priority is to act wealthy and to conform into society. Furthermore, Dick says many â€Å"snotty things† about Holden’s suitcase, like saying it was â€Å"bourgeois† (121). By making rude comments and moving Holden’s suitcases, Dick eliminates the opportunity to have a connection with Holden, which is what Holden wants. He brings Holden down to make him feel better about himself, and as a result conforms to society by acting like he’s rich. Since Holden is depressed by the thought Dick doesn’t care about being friends, both of them separate as roommates. Having differentShow MoreRelatedA Psychological Interpretation: the Irony of Holden Caulfield’s Inner Conflict with Society2496 Words   |  10 PagesThe Catcher in the Rye, a novel written by J. D. Salinger is a story about a unique yet troubled boy named Holden Caulfield. Sal inger masterfully depicts the story’s protagonist as a well rounded character who feels the full range of emotions. Holden is consumed by the desire to live in a world where he can play the hero and surround himself with love and acceptance. Holden’s need for love and belonging, however, creates an irony because it provokes an intense aversion to society that pushes Holden