Symbols and Symbolism in The Catcher in the Rye :: Catcher Rye Essays

Symbolism in The Catcher in the Rye Throughout the novel, the reviewer is presented with various symbols. The symbols argon clearly made evident by Holdens constant repetition of their importance. The symbols are so important and their symbolism is directly think to the major themes of the novel. Allie, Holdens young brother who died several years earlier, was a key symbol throughout the story. When Holden remembers incidents from his past involving Allie, his attitude changes, such as when he writes the composition about Allies baseball glove or when Holden broke his hand after punching all of the windows after Allie died. He feels that Allie was one of the few wad who were not phony in a world full of phonies. More importantly, Allie represents the innocence and childhood that Holden strives to find throughout his multi-day journey. In Holdens opinion, Allie represents the purity that Holden looks for in the world. Holden admits that he admires Allie more than he admires Jesus, and even prays to Allie at one point, rather than Jesus. Allie is Holdens role model, whom he judges the rest of the world according to. When Allie dies, it creates excitement in Holdens life. At various points during the course of the novel, Holden inquires as to what happens to the ducks who are normally on a pond in Central Park, when winter comes and the water freezes. As he inquires, the answers he receives range from as farfetched answers as the idea that the ducks still remain there under the ice, just as the tilt do, to uncaring answers such as a simple What a stupid question remark. Despite the answer he gets, Holden is never satisfied with the reply. Holden doesnt consciously realize that the ducks relate to him. Whether he will admit it or not, Holden is scared. He has been kicked out of numerous schools, he cant get good grades, his parents are angry with him, and he spends his days wandering through New York City. He doesnt know where he is going to go, reflecting h is question about the ducks. Perhaps if he knew where the ducks went, he could follow their example. While walking through New York City, Holden arrives at the Museum of Natural History. He remarks about the museum that he likes the glass cases that the museum officials place all of their exhibits in.