Catcher in the Rye: Techniques

As I recall, there was once occurrence when Salinger used mystery.  This was used on the first page when he wrote, “If you really want to hear about it...” (Salinger 1)  It is initially unclear what the it is and why he is telling us about it. 

            Salinger probably did not intend for this part to be funny since it was written back in the 1950’s but I would have said that he was trying to appeal to peoples’ sense of humor by saying “phony” (Salinger 46) so many times.  Apparently, “phony” was actually a common word during that time period though, so humor is drawn out. 

            Symbolism is another method used to engage the reader.  Holden often asks what happens to the ducks during the winter time when the pond freezes (Salinger 44).  The ducks are symbolic of himself and the winter and ice represent the pressures enclosing him and forcing him to make a decision of where to go and what to do.  Also, early in the book, Holden says that his mom gave him ice skates, but they were the wrong kind- hockey instead of racing.  This represents how Holden’s parents were unable to support him during his difficult time.  It is possible that his red hat could represent his identity.  He wore that hat so often and it was like a comfort object to him that it seems to represent himself.  When Holden sees Phoebe wearing his hat and carrying his suitcase it must have made him get the feeling that she is following in his footsteps.  This could be one reason why Holden decided to stay after all instead of running away. 

            The final technique is suspense.  As with many books, there are bits and pieces of suspense throughout the book to keep the reader interested.  One example is when Holden is the victim of a fist fight with Stradlater.  Another scene is when Holden attempts to sneaks home to see Phoebe without getting caught by his parents (Salinger 85).  

Salinger, J. D. The Catcher in the Rye. Boston: Little, Brown, 1951. Print.