Catcher in the Rye - Characterization and Symbolism

“It Just About Killed Me”

J.D. Salinger’s diction (word choice) for Holden Caulfield is unique and interesting. His voice is easily distinguished among literary characters. How does the way he speaks tell us about who he is?

Consider:

1. What do you find interesting/unique/distinguishable about Holden’s style of speech? 2. How would you characterize this narrative style?3. What mood or atmosphere is created from this style?4. Also think about: What types of words does Holden use? What is the tone? Is he grammatically correct? What

impression do you have of his character as a result?

“This Red Hunting Hat” “I put on this hat that I’d bought in New York that morning. It was this red hunting hat, with one of those very, very long peaks. I saw it in the window of this sports store when we got out of the subway, just after I noticed I'd lost all the goddam foils. It only cost me a buck. The way I wore it, I swung the old peak way around to the back—very corny, I'll admit, but I liked it that way. I looked good in it that way. (3.3)

5. How is Holden’s Red Hunting Hat both part of his characterization and a symbol in the novel?

6. Look at the following photos and answer this question:

7. Holden’s red hunting hat is a good symbol to keep track of to help learn something about his personality. In pairs, make note of appearances of Holden’s hat – what was happening at the time, how did he act, and what could this mean?

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