Ambivalence in Young Adulthood in J.D. Salinger’s The Catcher in the Rye

Abstract

The novel The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger portrays the typical character of Holden Caulfield. Holden performs different activities randomly and he had different plans which had not been acknowledged by his parents. It shows that American young adults are not consistent and are not used doing many things simultaneously. They are without plans. This mid-twentieth century novel shows clear image of adolescents during that particular time.

In the novel, the central character Holden Caulfield was expelled from the school and he did not have a plan to get back home; he rather visited different places. He was totally unknown about his activities. He faced a lot of troubles during his travels with semi-conscious mind. Still he did not feel guilty about his activity. So, he was a perfect example of ambivalent character, who represents young Americans during that age. He always got confused what to do and what not to do.