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.