When I first started reading Catcher in the Rye, I really disliked Holden, as those in seventh period may have picked up on. To me, he seemed arrogant and self-entitled, things that might annoy most people about characters. However, after the first few chapters where Holden comes across as a try-hard for not trying hard, his reluctance to be a part of the "crowd" or participate in "the game" is explained. His childhood was traumatizing and for good reason: his brother's untimely death obviously affected him and was perhaps the start of his disenchantment with the system. I think that this side of Holden comes to endear him to the reader in the next chapters and perhaps explains his detachment from people. He does not wish to get close to any person like he was with his brother Allie probably for fear of losing them. As discussed in class, Holden seems to be dealing with his emotions by using detachment as a coping mechanism for his grief and depression. He exemplifies many classic signs of depression due to an event, as he refuses to talk about it with some of his closer friends (if he even allows himself to call them that) and only confides in Jane, a figure who is a part of his past by his own choice.
I think that Holden's grief makes him a far more relatable character than the one seen in the first few chapters. Although many might identify with the loner disillusioned with the system, I think that having a reason for his dissatisfaction makes Holden into a more interesting character. People that seek change in systems that are stifling are not to be criticized. Holden, however, did not seek any change in the way the game of life is played, but rather wished to not participate. Now knowing the trauma he has been through, it is clear why Holden does not wish to participate: his brother Allie never got a chance to. Though Holden is still reluctant to divulge everything about his past with us, hopefully in chapters to come we see a similar side of Holden as he becomes a more endearing and engaging narrator.
I've had a similar experience reading the first couple chapters of The Catcher in the Rye. I liked Holden even less than Stephen at first, but as we learn more about him and why he is the way he is, I'm beginning to understand, relate to, and like him more.
ReplyDeleteI had never thought of his detachment as a coping mechanism. It hadn't occurred to me how much his brothers death would effect him. It makes sense we don't hear a lot about Allie though because Holden would naturally try not to talk or think about it, to avoid heavy emotions.
ReplyDeleteYou bring up a great point of his coping. I'm lucky enough to have never suffered from it, but the people I know who've had depression do tell of how detached they feel in social contexts. Holden's might seem more self-aware and purposeful, but it's a solid observation. Knowing what he's gone through, depression and grief would not be surprising from him at all.
ReplyDeleteHaving finished the book, it is interesting to recall the initial thoughts that I had, as well as the thoughts of most readers. I have read alot of blog post saying that once things picked up and we hear his story, peoples outlooks on Holden changed. I think he is very relatable towards the middle and end. it's hard to hate someone knowing what they are going through something like holden... Good Post :)
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