Maturation Symbolism In Catcher In The Rye

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The Catcher in the Rye, Jerome D. Salinger’s one and only full novel, was written in 1951. Since then, it has sold more than 65 million copies and translated into most of the world’s major languages. This book tells the story of Holden Caulfield, a 16 year old who can’t seem to be able to stay at one school and despises the “phoniness” of adult-life. One day, he must grow up, but Salinger is there to lead him throughout the book. Salinger uses symbolism to convey a maturation theme in his work. Some of these symbols include Holden’s hat, the Museum of Natural History. and the carousel. All of these symbols contribute to the maturation of Holden and lead him to the path of accepting adulthood.

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