THE CATCHER IN THE RYE

The Catcher in the Rye, by J.D. Salinger, portrays Holden Cawfield a New York City teenager in the 1950's as a manic-depressive. Holden's depression starts with the death of his brother, Allie . Holden is expelled from numerous schools due to his poor academics which are brought on by his depression. Manic depression, compulsive lying, and immaturity throughout the novel characterize Holden. Events in Holden's life lead him to become depressed. Holden's depression centers on …

…she didn’t have any alternative"(125). He continues to tell her how much he loved her and then he regrets saying that because he really does not. Holden's depression, immaturity, and suicidal thoughts lead Holden to the rest home where he tells this story. The characteristics that Holden portrays lead him to being expelled from school, problems with his parents, and problems in his social life. Had Holden not been suicidal and immature he would.