Language Usage in the Catcher in the Rye

A detailed Summary of Language Usage in the Catcher in the Rye

The passage of adolescence has long served as the central theme for many novels, but The Catcher in the Rye, by J.D. Salinger, has captured the energy of this period of life by dramatizing Holden Caulfield's somewhat obscene language and emotional reactions. The Catcher in the Rye deals with an intelligent yet confused teenage boy struggling to see the genuineness in society. During his experiences, Holden tends to use easy, natural, but controversial language to help get his point across in an effective manner. As a result, the themes and messages Salinger attempts to get across appear more natural and believable, as if one was talking to Holden himself.

Although seemingly inappropriate for society, the language used in throughout the novel is very appropriate for the character. At the time of the novel through today, Holden's speech rings true to the colloquial speech of teenagers, which includes both simple description and cursing. For example, Holden says, "Quite amusing and all." (Pg. 83), referring to the taxi driver. This oversimplifies the taxi driver, implying that Holden does not necessarily want to praise or demean the man. Also, Holden states that he will not tell his "whole goddamn autobiography or anythin

The Catcher in the Rye, however, depends on this language, for the novel would not be as effective without it. Readers would not be able to identify Holden's character very quickly, if at all, in that they would not see which situations upset Holden more than others. Also, the teenage perspective of the story would be lost, in that teenagers tend to use their choice phrases and light cursing. This would eventually turn the book into a mundane piece of literature that would not be half as interesting to read as it is currently, even though it is somewhat controversial.

Throughout the novel, some controversial language takes place and some argue as to whether or not it is really necessary. The language, though, is extremely necessary in order for The Catcher in the Rye to be as effective and get its point across. The language, non-grammatical and obscene, is appropriate for the time and the theme of the novel, not to mention the main character. Despite past and present disputes over whether or not this language should be presented, all can agree that Holden's language defines him as a character and the situations that he encounters.

As a whole, the vernacular speech we see from Holden Caulfield is very necessary in order for Salinger to present his ideas in an efficient manner. With his speech mannerisms, the reader is able to

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Approximate Word count = 908
Approximate Pages = 4 (250 words per page double spaced)

Category: English