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
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Some common words found in the essay are:
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Approximate Word count = 908
Approximate Pages = 4 (250 words per page double spaced)
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