Journal #2: A Ridiculous Hospitallity Story

Because I have been interested in squirrels recently, this short story about hospitality and manners will involve a couple of squirrels, one being extremely obese. This unrealistic story is based off of a few drawings that my friend and I creatively made. It is an extremely terrible story but I will post it anyways.
The first squirrel, Jesse Lacey, is roughly 100 pounds. He has a furry gut that overwhelms his vision and breathing capabilities. Although the squirrel has a hard time sustaining life, he seems quite happy. His life revolves around sleeping and eating massive amounts of food. His favorite food would have to be cake. He does not leave a single crumb on the large platter.
Jesse Lacey has a brother that weighs 94 pounds less than him. His name is Connor. Connor is a really creative squirrel who enjoys long walks in the afternoon. His weight is quite standard for a squirrel. Unfortunately his favorite food is cake. This is a large problem due to Jesse Lacey's massive infatuation with cake.
One day, a ridiculous T-Rex was baking awesome cake. Jesse Lacey smelled the delicious cake from three miles away. At the time, Jesse was outside of his tree home playing football with Connor. Connor smelt the awesome cake as well. They both began to leap toward the trees in the direction of the cake.
The three mile journey consisted of fire breathing dragons and mountain climbing. When the two rival brothers made it to the gigantic mountain, Connor believed he had the upper hand. He was small and quick, whereas Jesse was large and quite slow. Connor then took out a gigantic jet pack from his fanny pack. He strapped it on and began to fly. Just then, a roaring, whipping sound entered the mountain side. Connor looked to his left and Jesse was flying a massive helicopter. Connor was forcefully thrown to the ground from the massive helicopter.
Jesse finally made his way to the top of the mountain. He greeted the T-Rex and then took off with the cake. He flew to the bottom of the mountain where Connor was sitting down. Jesse saw the sadness in his eyes and decided it would be respectful if he gave his brother the large cake. Jesse and Connor began to share their love of cake after that ridiculously unrealistic day.

Journal #1:Native American Culture

I know the traditional basics of Native American culture. Diseases and wrongful actions seemed to be common hardships many Native Americans faced. Throughout the early settlements, many Spanish or European explorers wrongfully deceived the native people. These people were unaware of the future they would soon face.
I believe the native people enjoyed the new settlers company at first. They did not have any prior knowledge of the language and customs the settlers partook in. This can be related to various ethnicity groups in the contemporary society. Many racial groups do not understand opposite ethnicity's traditions. Many often label these racial groups with stereotypical humor and preconceived notions. I believe the native people's struggle with language and culture can be related to modern racial groups.
The new settlers often used sign language or alternative forms of communication to interact with the Native Americans. Communication was eventually met in the middle and the two groups could coexist. Although it seemed that these groups would coexist with each other, they did not agree with various customs over time. Many settlers tried to persuade the natives to take part in christian customs. Many natives were opposed to this but some agreed. Native American traders seemed more open to the idea of Christianity. This is partly due to their strong interactions with new settlers. Over time, many explorers began to control the native people and convert their traditional values. Native American culture began to deteriorate in this time period.
Many Native Americans began to lash out on the new settlers. Multiple battles and arguments erupted due to the contrasts in cultures. In Mexico, many Spanish explorers deceived the native people. The explorers claimed they were gods. The strong civilizations believed this lie. This lie would soon lead to massive destruction and the dilapidation of Mexican empires. Although the Mexican civilizations were intelligent and strong, they had no prior knowledge of the battles they would soon face.
I do not have extensive knowledge of Native American traditions but I know of many hardships and battles many native people endured.

Symbolism in The Catcher in the Rye

The Catcher in the Rye contained a lot of symbolism. Holden Caulfield lacked religious preferences and was often unaware of any spiritual resolutions. This of course is the thought process of J.D. Salinger himself. Salinger did not like the use of religious resolutions in his novel. The Catcher in the Rye was radical for its time because it did not meet the standard of traditional novels; it exceeded the standards.

Symbolism seems to be used in several aspects of the novel. The two nuns in the novel seem to represent Salinger's disagreement with religion. Although he did not believe in religious uses in his novel, Salinger made sure the two nuns did not suffer any struggles in the novel. I believe Salinger used these characters to respect one's religious preferences.

Another symbol throughout the novel, seems to be the people Caulfield encounters. These people lack any kind of personality or sympathy. I believe these characters are symbols conformity and social suffocation. By using these characters, Salinger successfully makes his point on conformity and people's lack of personality throughout the novel. I believe Salinger was effective in creating a novel in which many could relate with.

Quotes 4

“Stay at my house if you like, bird…I am sorry I cannot hoist the sail and take you in with the small breeze that is rising. But I am with a friend.”

This quote is quite amusing. I believe the quote is amusing because Santiago is interacting with the bird. He speaks to the bird as if he is speaking to a human being. I enjoy this interaction because it shows Santiago’s compassion and love for others in the world. This is another style used by Hemingway to intrigue his audience. I think Hemingway is effective in doing this. Although the characters are quite amusing, Hemingway created a somewhat imaginative environment with the various characters in the novel. I believe this quote is infatuating because Santiago is treating the bird fairly. He even offers to be a host or friend if the bird needs one. This is somewhat comical because the bird cannot obviously do regular human being activities. With this conversation, Santiago seems to long for a companion. He also brings up the fact that he is struggling with the large marlin. The fact that he brings up his struggle with the fish makes the situation more appealing. I like how Santiago is being compassionate toward the other creatures on the sea. This displays his kind hearted and friendly personality.

Hemingway used the character of Santiago to show a compassionate and loyal aspect of the novel. His purpose in the novel was very effective and it made the sea less redundant and humdrum. I believe Santiago used his nice personality to gain friends. I am surprised that Santiago is as compassionate and friendly as he is. Most people who are taunted on a daily basis are not as friendly and loyal as Santiago is. This good attitude that Santiago displays makes the novel more friendly and appealing. I believe Santiago is lonely on the sea and he uses the creatures around him to feed his loneliness. This quote is effective at showing the imaginative side to the novel.

Quotes 3

“I wish the boy was here.”

Throughout the novel, Santiago wishes that his young companion, Manolin, was on the fishing trip with him. Santiago insisted that Manolin stay behind because he did not want the boy to get hurt or endangered. I believe it is courageous that Manolin insisted on coming with Santiago on the trip. Although Manolin was not allowed to fish with Santiago anymore, the boy continues to ask Santiago if he could come with. I like how Manolin enjoys fishing and helping the old man out. I believe this is noble and he should be commended for his loyalty and respect toward Santiago.

"If you’re not tired, fish…you must be very strange."

I enjoy this quote for several reasons. The fish has become a prominent character throughout the novel. Because of his purpose in the novel, Santiago begins to interact and communicate with the fish. I enjoy this quote because he talks to the fish. After being around him for quite some time, I believe Santiago began to enjoy the fish and their struggle. This aspect of the novel makes it quite intriguing and entertaining. I believe the loyalty toward the fish is quite amusing.

Another reason why I enjoy this quote would have to be because of the struggle the fish and Santiago had to endure. This ongoing battle seemed to take a lot of energy from both parties. When the old man asks the fish why he is not tired, it seems to show how much struggle and strength was put into the battle between the fish and the old man. Although the battle is amusing and exciting, readers may feel tired and worn out as well. I believe this is due to Hemingway’s effective imagery and descriptive language. This language allows the readers to feel as if they are truly inside of the novel. I believe this quote signifies the struggle and long battle that the fish and the old man had to endure.

Quotes 2

“I would like to take the great DiMaggio fishing…They say his father was a fisherman. Maybe he was as poor as we are and would understand.”

I believe this quote is important to the novel. The quote shows some of Santiago’s sentimentality. As well as the quote’s sentimentality, it also shows a significant figure in Santiago’s life which is quite odd because his character is so reserved and focused on his occupation. I enjoy this quote because of its emotions and its ability to unlock doors in the world of the Old Man and the Sea.

Santiago is a reserved fisherman who does not seem to admire anyone. After reading this line, I was surprised that Santiago had actually found someone who he truly admired and respected. Joe DiMaggio seems to be Santiago’s childhood hero. He also enjoys the face that DiMaggio’s father was a fisherman as well. I believe this relation makes Santiago feel more comfortable about his position in society. Santiago does not feel that it is negative to be a fisherman because the great Joe DiMaggio’s father was one. I enjoy this because I feel that Santiago needs more self confidence and pride in himself and his occupation.

This quote shows that Santiago feels emotions and happiness. Throughout the novel, Santiago daydreams of DiMaggio. He dreams of DiMaggio aboard his ship helping out. I believe Santiago needs some company during the duration of the catch. He deserves some company and these dreams seem to give him that company. I also enjoy the fact that Santiago has a strong admiration toward a specific being. This is quite intriguing because he seems to not care for anyone or anything but his fishing. I believe this quote shows another side to Santiago which is quite important to the characters personality. Santiago is reserved and seems to have no emotions. With this line, readers gain a new perception of the old fisherman and his unfortunate life.

Hemingway

Hemingway’s work was brilliant and imaginative. He was able to write his novel with confidence and simplistic structure. His imagery allowed him to create a realistic world in which various characters inhabited. I believe Hemingway wrote his final novel with brilliance and realism.

During the duration of the novel, Hemingway does not disappoint when it comes to imagery. He writes about all the surrounding objects and characters encountered throughout the novel. The sea is described so well that readers feel as if they are truly in the world Hemingway created for the old man. Hemingway wanted to allow readers to connect with the characters and environment in the novel. Hemingway ensured the novel’s consistency and cohesive structure. The novel remained simple yet descriptive to the last page of the novel. He made sure to keep the novel from turning into too much or going off of topic.

Santiago, the kind hearted fisherman, seemed to gain Hemingway a large support. Many readers felt sympathy for the old man and his struggling life. Throughout the novel, the audience is enticed in the hardships and battles Santiago seemed to face. By killing off the marlin in the end, Hemingway created a theme or message which was not expected in the initial thoughts of the novel.

Hemingway’s writing style allows the novel to sustain a healthy life in American Literature. Throughout the literary community, many readers have been influenced by Hemingway’s imaginative style. He delivered his novels with strong imagery and sympathetic characters. Characters such as the marlin, the bird, and the sharks allow the readers to gain a new perspective of characters in a novel. Animals are typically not prominent characters in a novel. I believe these companions are important aspects to the novel’s success. The novel could not have been as popular if it did not contain odd characters and actions. Without the marlin, the novel would lack purpose and a theme. Without the sharks, the novel could not resolve itself on its own momentum.

Old Man and the Sea Conflict

In the Old Man and the Sea, the conflict could be multiple things. Santiago is a starving fisherman who cannot seem to make enough money to support himself. His former partner, Manolin, is one of the only fulfilling constant in Santiago’s life. By having this constant, Santiago gains more courage and slight happiness. His loneliness does not seem to take over.

Santiago is a failing fisherman who has been unable to catch a fish in eighty seven days. Because of this, Santiago has no hope in his future as a fisherman. Many readers feel sympathy toward the old man and his fruitless attempts at survival on the sea. After Santiago realizes his poor situation, he decides to change it. He decides to go and make something out of himself. He embarks on a life-altering journey. He explains to his young companion that he cannot allow him to go. Manolin is upset by this demand but tells the old man that he will help him out whenever he needs help. This loyalty and passion show that the boy is serious about his companionship and fishing.

Once on the sea, Santiago quickly hooks a large fish. He is unaware of the fish’s size but he believes it is a large fish. He does not know the size of the marlin until later. Unable to reel in the marlin, Santiago begins to struggle with him for several days. The battle has little rest and Santiago is determined to successfully catch the large fish. I believe the ongoing struggles to find a living and catch the marlin seems to be prominent conflicts in the novel. Santiago has to catch the marlin to rebuild his occupation and life. That is why his struggle with the fish is so fierce and determined. It is quite unfortunate that sharks take away Santiago’s golden opportunity but everything happens for a reason. I believe Santiago realized he accomplished his goal and can accomplish higher goals with the help of his loyal partner. He unfortunately took Manolin for granted in the beginning of the novel.

The Sharks

The sharks became a large threat to the fish and the old man throughout the novel. If it weren’t for the sharks, the old man could have gotten his large marlin and he could have gained a larger reputation. Although it was disheartening to watch Santiago’s goal be taken away, it is out of one’s control to steer the sharks away from the fish.

I was beginning to enjoy the struggle between the fish and the old man. The old man protected the fish as if it were his child. He did this to ensure that his catch would be perfect and unharmed. Although many can claim that Santiago protected the fish for food or respect, I believe he also gained a relationship with the fish. Without the fish, Santiago would have no struggle or companion. His lowliness on the sea made him begin speaking to animals such as birds and fish. This loneliness is discouraging, yet readers continue on.

Once the sharks entered the story, the theme changed. Many readers were unhappy with the shark’s involvement in the catch but it gave readers entertainment and a bit of excitement. Because of this excitement, readers continued on with the novel and did not stray away from the ongoing battle between the fish, the old man, and now the ravenous sharks. Although the excitement was nice at first, the reality of the sharks placement in the novel set in. Many readers knew the marlin’s fate. The fate was unfortunately inevitable. After the fish’s death, Santiago thinks of the many sharks the marlin had once killed. This gives a key to the marlin’s strength and size. One almost feels sympathy for the marlin because he was held captive by the old fisherman. If he were not venerable, he could easily defeat the colony of sharks attacking him. I believe the sharks symbolized death and fear, but brought about a new leaf. Without the sharks, Santiago would not be able to realize his future and the purpose of his journey.

The Marlin

I enjoy the marlins placement in the novel. The large fish acts as multiple things in the novel. The fish acts as a goal or target throughout the novel. The marlin seems to be Santiago’s goal and wish during his journey. He made the journey to catch the magnificent creature and he will not allow the fish to retreat from his grasps. Although Santiago would like to catch the marlin, he seems to protect it and nurture it throughout the novel. He believes it is his duty to protect the magnificent fish and he will not let any other creature or force of nature take it away. I believe he is completely devoted to his fish and will not let his companions down.

I enjoy the marlin because he seems to be another character in the novel. The novel lacks characters and the marlin is just like another human. It goes through similar hardships and unfortunately dies in the end. The death of the fish is discouraging and some could say even fruitless. The fact that the fish dies in the end makes the trip almost completely worthless. After readers realize that Santiago caught the fish and accomplished his goal, the death is not as discouraging. Like a character in a novel, the marlin suffers fatal blows. He is slowly attacked by large amounts of sharks. This slow death disheartens readers and many can find sympathy for the fish and the old man. The old man did not seem too happy about the marlin’s death, yet he dragged the extremely large skeleton up to shore and he gained much respect from the fish. The marlin can somewhat symbolize hope and respect. Without the large fish, Santiago would not gain hope of living a sturdy life as a fisherman. Without the large fish, Santiago would not gain respect from his fellow companions. The marlin’s skeleton created great things for Santiago. The relationship between Santiago and Manolin was strengthened by the tireless journey.

Quotes

“I would like to go. If I cannot fish with you, I would like to serve in some way.”

I enjoy this quote for several reasons. This quote was stated by Manolin after he discovered that Santiago was going to embark on his journey. Just before this quote, the old man told Manolin to “go play baseball.” By saying this, Santiago conveys Manolin as a young child who cannot handle the rough sea. I do not believe Santiago should have said this to Manolin. I believe he should have as much faith in Manolin as the child has in himself. When Manolin stated the quote I have above, it showed that the boy was extremely loyal and caring. He longed to serve Santiago on the sea. I believe he would make a great fisherman one day because he is optimistic and quite loyal to his goals. Santiago made a mistake by not allowing the boy to come with. If Manolin were to come on the sea with Santiago, the large marlin could possibly be caught. I believe it is quite noble that Manolin would ask Santiago to serve him in some way. By saying this, Manolin established trust in their relationship.

“Fish…I’ll stay with you until I am dead.”

Santiago stated this during his battle with the marlin. This is the beginning of Santiago’s protection of the marlin. Santiago will not allow the fish to escape or die out of his grasp. He would like to have the fish and the respect that will come with the capture. I enjoy this quote because it begins to show Santiago’s loyalship toward the trip and the fish. He truly wants to capture the fish and make a name for himself. I believe by establishing a companionship with the marlin, he could pass some time and catch the fish easier. It gives the old man something to do and it allows him to make another goal. This goal would be to take the fish back to shore in his arms.

Thoughts on Novel

The Old Man and the Sea was full of a lot of imagery. I enjoyed the novel because it contained a whimsical yet realistic vibe to it. Hemingway seemed to appeal to many readers. His writing style was descriptive and simple. By writing a simplistic novel, readers do not lose interest throughout the conflict.

I enjoyed the fact that Santiago seemed to think of the marlin as a companion. He had been with the large fish long enough to gain a strong companionship. He protected the fish throughout the shark attacks but unfortunately, the fish was viciously attacked. Maybe Santiago acted the way he did because he was tired, worn out, or hungry. He seemed to want the respect and reputation that would come about catching such a large fish. Either way, I enjoyed Santiago’s loyalty toward the marlin. By establishing this loyalty, Hemingway entertained and pleased many readers.

Throughout this novel, I realized that Hemingway wanted to go out with a simplistic yet odd story. He used amazing imagery which allowed readers to believe they are truly in the environment conveyed throughout the novel. With this style of writing, Hemingway established a strong fan base with the novel. I believe it was very appropriate for Hemingway to write The Old Man and the Sea in a simple, yet imaginative writing style. Hemingway wrote about multiple animals and objects throughout the novel. Without this impressive imagery, the novel could of possibly failed in its attempt to convey life on the sea.
Overall, I quite enjoyed the novel. I believe it was simple and there was not much needed. The seclusion and loneliness of the sea was truly portrayed in the novel. I believe the small amount of characters in the novel were important to its success. The marlin seemed to have a large part in the novel. I enjoy this character because it was unrealistic and quite playful. I believe Hemingway did a great job of conveying an elderly man’s life on the sea.

The Old Man and the Sea Summary

After much struggle and hardships, the protagonist of the novel, Santiago, began to embark on a life-altering adventure. Santiago has had an unfulfilling career as a fisherman. He is often taunted for his fruitless attempts at making living. After much thought, Santiago decides to embark on a journey.

When Santiago begins to reel in the marlin, he is skeptical of its size. He believes the fish is medium sized. Little does he know, the magnificent fish is roughly the size of his boat. Santiago tries to reel in the fish but his attempts are not working. He barely sleeps due to the size of the fish. While on the sea, Santiago describes various sea creatures and objects around him. By doing this, Hemingway established a realistic environment in which his readers would inhabit.

Throughout the novel, Santiago faces many struggles. In the beginning of the novel, Santiago does not have a sufficient amount of money to eat or live. He claims to be doing alright, but he cannot continue to lie to himself. After being on the sea for a short amount of time, Santiago hooks a large fish. He does not know much about the fish but he can tell it is large and he does not want to let go of it. He is unable to reel the fish in due to its size. With all his strength, Santiago struggles with the fish for several days. The old man loses sleep and food because of his hardships on the sea. Although the capture of the large fish is a lot of work, Santiago knows it will be worth it in the end.

After many struggles, some sharks begin to attract themselves toward the boat. They begin attacking the large marlin. Although the sharks take chunks out of the fish, the marlin continues to survive. Santiago beats the hungry creatures away. Santiago continues to kill the fish for quite sometime until all the flesh is completely missing from the large fish. Santiago is discouraged and upset, but he realizes he accomplished what he set out to do and he will continue to fish.

Santiago

I believe Santiago is a kindhearted, gentle man. He is elderly and unfortunately withered, yet he continues to fish out in the rough seas. For his occupation, I believe he is too nice. Being a fisherman involves killing fish but he is kind and brittle. Although he does not seem well suited to be a fisherman, I believe he has the tolerance and patience to do this. Without a lot of patience and tolerance, one cannot make a living as a fisherman.

I often felt sympathy for the fisherman throughout the novel. He seemed to have a rough and almost fruitless life. This life is discouraging because he seems like he would deserve much more than he has received. His companion, Manolin, seems to adore the old man. He respects him and is always looking out for Santiago. I believe the fisherman treated the companion quite well and he should be commended for his kind behavior.

When Santiago struggled to catch the marlin, I felt a lot of sympathy toward him. He surly deserves to catch this one large fish. By catching this fish, he would gain a strong reputation and many would respect him. He could also gain the self confidence he needed to make a sturdy living as a fisherman. When speaking of his reputation, it brought me to the topic of him being taunted quite often. I do not agree with other people discouraging Santiago. He is old and somewhat naïve, yet he sets his mind to accomplish great things. Even though Santiago did not catch the marlin alive, he succeeded in his goal at catching a large fish. People began to respect him more for his strong valiance.

One aspect of Santiago I seem to respect is his ability to interact with several animals throughout the trip. Santiago interacted with birds as well as the marlin. This interaction gave the novel a slight whimsical feel to it. I believe Hemingway successfully created a likeable and courageous protagonist.

Salinger's Career

The critically acclaimed author’s career grew in early publications of various short stories. Nine Stories, the compilation of short stories was organized by each of their publication dates. The publication of the compilation allowed Salinger to display his creative and secular works. After the publication of Nine Stories, Salinger released Franny and Zoey. Franny and Zoey delivered Salinger much more success and respect throughout the critical community. The novel was published as two separate pieces in the New Yorker. Salinger has been commended for composing two stories inside of one. Composed of 41, 130 words, Zoey is one of the most extensive novels the New Yorker has ever published. Salinger’s various works have undoubtedly left an imprint on American Literature. Novels like Franny and Zoey conveyed love in a secular perspective, whereas Catcher in the Rye displayed an author’s persona and love for his characters. Salinger was a versatile writer who did not seem pressured by other traditional writers. His new writing style allowed many readers to discover a secular, contemporary vibe. With this contemporary style, authors did not fear the publications of their radical novels. Salinger was a leader in his career. Salinger’s success is incomprehensible due to his many readers and devoted fans.

Throughout his career, Salinger faced many obstacles. Many anti-secular supporters did not agree with Salinger’s work. In today’s society, The Catcher in the Rye would be considered mild or tame. When published, the novel was bold and some considered “inappropriate.” Although the novel faced many obstacles, it was eventually recognized by various readers and support groups. I myself have changed due to Salinger’s remarkable work. His writing style is quite prominent in American literature. The literary community has been significantly altered due to Salinger’s work. Many young readers have adapted various theories and ideals brought about in Salinger’s critically acclaimed novel. Because of Salinger’s rebellion from traditional literature, he gained much respect and paved the way for future writers who are truly inspired by Salinger and his work.

Conformity in The Catcher in the Rye

Conformity, which Salinger seemed to oppose, is a major theme in The Catcher in the Rye. The novel revolves around a misguided teenager who seems to rebel against conformity. Caulfield does not agree with the majority of schools he has attended. In the beginning of the novel, Caulfield is attending a prep school in which he does not agree with. The school is not working out for him and he is unfortunately expelled. After being expelled, Caulfield is worried about disclosing this information to his family. He then embarks on a journey in which he will discover to accept the world around him. His opposition toward the school is another example of Caulfield’s hatred of conformity. He feels as if he cannot find a school that will accommodate his needs and expectations. Although he does not like the school, he is not opposed to the education system in general. He cannot find anything that he will truly enjoy.

Throughout the Catcher in the Rye, Caulfield encounters multiple people who reflect the conformist lifestyle Salinger dislikes. Salinger put in various characters that were unable to discover their identity and purpose in life. These characters allowed Caulfield to see other people similar to him. Even though he encounters characters much like him, he does not seem to feel any better about himself. In fact, he becomes more reclusive and begins to flaunt his money out in order to impress young women. He fruitlessly attempts to have a good time in the city before returning home. Caulfield gets into petty arguments with various characters. One of these characters seem to be a taxi cab driver. These little arguments convey Caulfield as a young and lonely child. He was unable to relate with his family and school mates, therefore he resorted to small characters such as taxi cab drivers.

Although Caulfield does not agree with the pressures of life, he eventually falls to conformity. Salinger did not agree with conformity, yet he resolved Caulfield’s dilemmas with conformity in society.

The Catcher in the Rye's Success

The Catcher in the Rye is Salinger’s most successful novel, appealing to mainly adolescent readers. The novel was surprisingly secular for its date of publication in 1951. At this time, novels had remained religious and limited. Holden Caulfield delivers a relation to the novel’s characters through his isolation and seclusion. Because of this, many young adults gravitated toward the novel and Salinger. The novel’s characters have been described as fruitless and unhappy. In The Catcher in the Rye there is a vivid description of a secluded and simplistic home; Salinger later lived in a home quite similar to the description in the novel. Upon reading this novel, fans develop a sense of Salinger’s direction and personality. Because Salinger reveals himself through Caulfield, readers attach themselves to Salinger and the novel itself. Their connection is undeniably a factor in the novel’s overall success. Many adolescent readers do not have a sense of direction and are often naïve. In relation to the young readers, Caulfield is conveyed as an inept and misplaced adolescent character. Basic adult values and morals are laid to rest in The Catcher in the Rye. This lack of tradition aided in its success and survival throughout the different eras. Salinger disassociates religion from the novel. Unlike other novels in this period, The Catcher in the Rye does not use religion as a resolution in the conclusion. In the mind of Salinger, the novel was not intended as a piece of propaganda. In the contemporary society, traditional values are not linked back to ideas. The only display of religion in the novel is the two nun’s resolution. Their resolution is solved with dignity, which seems to be quite ironic for this particular story. Salinger strayed away from the use of religion in order to captivate his young audience and perceive his values through Holden Caulfield. Although The Catcher in the Rye was depicted as contemporary and secular, it became one of the most successful novels in American Literature.

Holden Caulfield/Catcher in the Rye

The Catcher in the Rye’s superficial protagonist, Holden Caulfield, has been compared to Salinger and his young spirit. Caulfield has remained as an influential and evoking character in American Literature. His adolescent appeal seems to be the reason for the novel’s overall success and survival. Although Caulfield appealed to many young readers, he would often disconnect with the readers. It has been speculated that Caulfield was developed to challenge various readers. He challenges them with his different roles, such as: “insider and outsider, pacifist and rebel, nonconformist, masochist, optimist, liar, and learner” (Mills, Clifford. “A Critical Perspective on the Writings of J.D. Salinger”). The character felt a sense of isolation, despite his social attitude toward the many characters in the novel. Caulfield refers to many unhappy characters as “phony.” This referral can be considered as a thought or action from Salinger himself. Salinger has been heavily compared to his various characters. His attitude and perception of society relate to Caulfield and his portrayal of life. Caulfield contained many similar qualities Salinger. Salinger lived a reclusive and simple life after the he left his career. He resided into his quiet New Hampshire home. Although he is quite similar to his famous character, he differs in some aspects. Caulfield seemed to accept conformity in the resolution of The Catcher in the Rye. Salinger did not want accept fame and fortune. He secluded himself into his New Hampshire home and found little time to socialize with various acquaintances. Many readers claim that Salinger mocked or loved his various characters. After being studied by biographers, Salinger’s characters were claimed to have realistic traits and qualities. Many characters in his novels were based off of real characters Salinger had encountered throughout his life. By placing these factual characters in his novels, Salinger created a realistic vibe to his stories. Without these acquaintances, Salinger’s imaginative characters could possibly lack truth and reality. Salinger’s personality and ideology is displayed in his novel’s characters. He had created an imaginative world in which his characters inhabited.

Symbolism

Throughout the contemporary novel, Holden Caulfield encountered various characters and objects symbolizing conformity and religion. The Catcher in the Rye contained sentimental memories and characters. Holden Caulfield’s late brother seemed to hold a place in his heart. Caulfield reminisced of games with his brother. His sentimentality opened another realm in the novel. The Catcher in the Rye seemed to lack a strong relationship. The memories Caulfield reminisces about creates depth to the novel. The depth of the novel is dumbfounding to various readers due to the novel’s message and overall theme. Throughout the novel, Caulfield speaks of most characters in a negative way. The only characters Caulfield seemed to admire were his family and the two nuns. The nuns seem to be a strong symbol in the novel, yet they have but a minute involvement in the overall story. When Caulfield encounters the nuns, he seems to give them a fair amount of money. Caulfield gave his money to the nuns, because he felt they were quite truthful in his society. Although Salinger introduced the nuns in his novel, they seem to have a different purpose. Salinger introduced the characters to make a statement of religion. He respects religion, but he did not want to revolve his novel around a specific religion. The Catcher in the Rye was a contemporary and radical novel due to its ability to resolve its conflict without religious interference. Because of the novel’s lack of religion, many older generations opposed the novel’s publication and study throughout the United States. The novel’s lack of religion allows readers to gain a perception of life not involving significant figures. This aspect gained the novel more support.

Various other small characters symbolized conformity and opposition. Caulfield encountered multiple characters in his hotel. These characters symbolized opposition toward conformity. Although he encountered many characters opposed to society, he continued to feel alone. The prostitute Caulfield calls can symbolize truth and fear. Throughout the novel, Caulfield discovered many characters representing larger aspects of life.

The Readers

The Catcher in the Rye seems to be an adolescent favorite. This novel conveys life in the perspective of an adolescent child. Holden Caulfield, the protagonist of the novel, perceives the various people in society as “phonies.” This term is an example of adolescent or immature vocabulary. Although the novel appeals to many young readers, adults support and enjoy the novel as well. The Catcher in the Rye has been embedded into the minds of many supportive young readers.

Novel that contain suggestive themes are often favored by younger readers. For its date of publication, The Catcher in the Rye was contemporary but quite inappropriate. Although the novel was disliked by older generations, many young readers connected with the novel’s raw theme. Caulfield related to many readers because of his attitude and actions throughout the novel. Alcohol, sex, and language seem to be common themes in the contemporary society. These themes can be a significant reason for the novel’s overall survival. Many young readers do not classify the novel as a “classic” due to its bold and radical writing style.

The Catcher in the Rye was not as beloved as it is in today’s society. When published, the novel was vulgar and inappropriate. Novels during this time period did not contain suggestive themes and actions. Although the novel faced many obstacles, it was eventually accepted in many environments. At first, the novel was not allowed in public schools. Once more novels like The Catcher in the Rye came, public schools began to accept the novel’s radical themes. After many disagreements with the novel, many new readers began to praise the novel. It appealed to many confused and reclusive readers. These readers followed Caulfield through his odd journey. At the end of Caulfield’s journey, he accepts conformity and the life he had once taken for granted. Like Caulfield, many readers accepted conformity as well. These readers heavily related to the world of Catcher in the Rye.

Holden Caulfield

The Catcher in the Rye contains a confused, questioning, and reclusive young man as the protagonist. He is lost in his society yet he would like to discover it further. Holden Caulfield is the novel’s key aspect to success. Caulfield contains radical theories and ideals that many find dumbfounding. His ability to question society and his placement is quite prominent toward the novel’s survival and success. Caulfield can be heavily compared to his creator, J.D. Salinger. Salinger contains similar qualities that were found in Caulfield. Due to this strong similarity, many readers are infatuated with Salinger and his personal life because of their unbreakable connection with the fictitious character.

Throughout the novel, Caulfield seems to bring back memories of his late brother. These memories create a back-story into Caulfield’s life. Although his brother has passed, Caulfield has one remaining sibling. His strong connection with his sister is due to his love and admiration toward his late brother. Through this rough affection, readers gain a sentimental side to Caulfield, which he seemed to lack earlier in the novel.

During the novel, Caulfield often thinks of old classmates which he did not seem to get along with. He speaks of them as “phonies” just as the other people placed in his society. Toward the end of the novel, Caulfield begins to realize his sentimentality toward the “phony” classmates. He begins to miss them and their odd antics.

Caulfield’s change of attitude throughout the novel is quite odd, yet readers grow with the character throughout these changes. Although the novel conveyed suggestive themes, Caulfield’s portrayal of life was realistic and truthful. His perception of society allows readers to question their own reality.

Holden Caulfield related to various adolescent readers. Being an adolescent himself, he struggled with the hardships of life. His journey through the city seemed quite intriguing as well. This adventure gives the novel a free and open feeling. Throughout the novel, Holden Caulfield adapts to conformity. With this adaption, readers feel a change in their personalities as well.

Sarcasm

According to an interview conducted with Salinger, Salinger responded to various comments and questions with humorous and facetious remarks. HE conveyed a lack of respect toward the literary community and its various biographers. Salinger disclaimed many accusations of reclusiveness and insanity. He was often asked questions of his seclusion. This reclusiveness seemed popular among many Salinger topics. He was unable to accept his strong fame that was discovered once works like Catcher in the Rye and Franny and Zoey were published. Because of these disclaimed remarks, readers gained another persona offered from Salinger. In an interview conducted by a Whimpleton Junglefowl, Salinger is perceived as a humorous, yet insightful human being. A source of Salinger’s seclusion can be his disassociation or lack of respect toward the literary community. After Salinger paved the way in terms of secular literature, many ameature authors began to mimick Salinger’s writing style. Their success seemed incomprehensible for Salinger. After a strong yet short career, Salinger disassociated himself from the literary community. Because of its redundant authors and novels, Salinger left for good. He was grateful for his success and fame, but could not cope with the changing success and literary community. Salinger lacked an influential character in his childhood. His life experiences allowed him to write the novels he did, rather than a specific character or role model. Salinger found it difficult to become an influential character due to his lack of an influential being.

During one of Salinger’s last interviews, he claimed responsibility of various novels such as Twilight and Harry Potter. His sarcasm of course became prominent in this interview. Even in his elderly state, Salinger contained the same vibrant and sarcastic personality he had in his younger age. Salinger unfortunately passed away sometime after this interview. His death brought about various questions. Many readers are questioning his unpublished works and their future. Most supporters would like to see more novels published yet some feel it is not admirable. His works were not meant to be published and many would like to leave these novels unpublished.

Salinger's Background

Salinger, being a Jewish child, found it hard to relate in society. During his childhood, Judaism did not seem to be quite popular. His mother, Marie Salinger, was disowned by her family due to her husband’s faith. After her tramatic disconnect from her family, Marie strongly studied the Jewish faith in order to establish a loving bond with her husband and his religious preferences.

Throughout Salinger’s early childhood, he often switched schools. At a particular point in his childhood, Salinger resided in a strict military school. This strict school allowed him to write secular and free novels. He did not believe in structure and order in his literary works.

After high school, Salinger pursued college. He examined various universities, but was quite indecisive of where he wanted to go. After much thought, Salinger chose The Washington Square College in New York. The universities’ acceptance of Jewish students appealed to Salinger. Although he enjoyed this acceptance, he eventually became restless and unable to continue an education at Washington Square. He then took an extended absence from college.

During this extended period of time, Salinger worked in a slaughter house in Poland. He did not enjoy the slaughterhouse due to its militant structure. This structure also aided in his ambitious novels. After he left the slaughterhouse, he enrolled into Ursinus College in Pennsylvania. This school provided Salinger with a strong education and healthy social life. Various students described Salinger as mysterious and odd. Although he was portrayed as an odd student, he gained a strong reputation that allowed him to gain strong relationships with various students. Many of Salinger’s characters were based off of factual students of Ursinus. Frances Glass, one of Salinger’s characters, was based off a student by the name of Frances Thieroff. After one semester at Ursinus, Salinger unexpectedly left. Although he left the university, he did not regret the experience and was quite positive toward the universities’ curriculum.
Salinger’s strong, yet ambitious background aided in his success.

Salinger's Seclusion

After Salinger published his remarkable novels, he began to exclude himself from society and his social life. His inability to cope with a growing career seemed to be a prominent explanation for his seclusion. Salinger’s reclusive lifestyle appealed to various fans and interviewers. His mysterious attitude toward life was infatuating. Although his works were critically acclaimed, Salinger was unable to accept his newly acquired fame.

Prior to The Catcher in the Rye, Salinger released Franny and Zoey. Franny and Zoey held the record as the longest publications in the New Yorker. Salinger did not receive much recognition for Nine Stories. Salinger published a series of short stories called Nine Stories. Nine Stories was later published as a compilation. After The Catcher in the Rye’s roaring publication, Salinger faced fame and criticism. Many were opposed to his novel due to its’ lack of a religious resolution. Public schools disagreed with the novels suggestive themes and message. Because of this criticism, The Catcher in the Rye gained much more attention and recognition.

Salinger’s personal life was questionable and appealing. This appeal aided in his success. For quite some time, Salinger seemed to have a healthy social life. He often entertained at his New Hampshire home. For whatever reason, Salinger began to seclude himself from society and his career. Although he left his career in literature, his work has been embedded into the minds of supportive readers.

Salinger’s home in New Hampshire was quite intriguing. It contained striking similarities to the home described in The Catcher in the Rye by Holden Caulfield. This house contained no electric and was deeply hidden in the rolling hills of New Hampshire. This home became Salinger’s resort for the last forty years of his life. He rarely spoke to any interviewers or fans. When Salinger did agree to interviews, he answered with obvious sarcasm. Even when he agreed to these interviews, he would refuse to answer any questions about his prior works. In retrospect, Salinger used sarcasm, seclusion, and mystery to convey his perspective of life.