The Catcher in the Rye (Choose any prompt) - Essay Example

The Catcher in the Rye The literary work on The Catcher in the Rye offers an insight into the concept of symbolism in narrative development. In this creative writing of Salinger, it is worth to note that the theme of maturity and loss of innocence among the young people is emphasized as a passage of right. From the onset of the story, Holden is overtaken by the desire to isolate himself from the society in an attempt to realize identity. This is one characteristic of the young people as they undergo transition to adulthood.

However, symbolism has been used in this work to amplify the vulnerability of the young people in as far as loss of their innocence towards maturity is concerned. One of the key symbolism concepts in this work is; Holden’s Red Hunting Hat. The 20th century literature works is closely associated with red hunting hat in American society. In close evaluation of Holden’s behavior, the hat symbolizes his uniqueness and extreme individualistic conduct. Holden’s efforts to be different from others are evident in the outlandish appearance of the hat (Salinger 68).

Besides, his frequent mentioning of when to wear the hat and often keeping it while meeting friends emphasize his attempts of uniqueness. The central conflict in this work can be seen from Holden’s desire to be isolated versus internal pressure for companionship. In this regard, the young people’s transition to maturity is inevitably associated with isolation while at the same time influenced by need for companionship which a recipe for loss of innocence. Another symbolism aspect in this work is the Museum of Natural History which Holden explains appears appealing due to its unchanging and frozen nature.

Holden’s frequent mention of his personal change each time he visits the museum emphasizes his disbelief. The museum is a sign of fantasy world in which Holden’s mind explore. This aspect is compounded by Holden fantasy in “catcher in the rye” where he thinks nothing changes. In fact in his world of fantasy, Holden thinks are simple and infinite. He is worried about the uncertainties of world that include death as evidenced in death of Allie. This case of symbolism reflects the world of fantasy that compels young people to adventure unacceptable moral deeds which expose them to lose of innocence towards maturity phase.

The Ducks Holden encounter in the Central Park Lagoon symbolizes the internal curiosity to understand the world. In essence, Holden’s question on where the ducks go is symbolic of the young people’s internal struggle to create meaning out of the social environment dynamics they interact with (Salinger 68). In his depths of thought, Holden is representative of the young people’s vulnerability to immoral acts while they attempt to generate who they are. The lagoon seems partly frozen for Holden and this symbolizes transition of his life from childhood to adulthood hence relevance of this literary tool in asserting the idea of the writer.

It is worth to conclude that this work cut across the young and adult with emphasis on the challenges of transition from childhood to adulthood. The development of the story and use of the literary tools like symbolism resonates the central theme effectively.Work citedSalinger, J D. The Catcher in the Rye. Bronx, NY: Ishi Press International, 2013. Print.