The Catcher in the Rye

Chapter 12

One of Holden’s contradictions is that he seems to feel lonely all the time, but when someone asks to spend time with him he says no and leaves. Analyze what is going on inside Holden for him to act this way.

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Holden is torn between his love of innocence and his desire to be an adult. He constantly puts himself in "adult" situations that he cannot handle with people he genuinely doesn't like. Holden doesn't open up.... he really doesn't want conversation..... he wants experience, and unfortunately, he is neither mature enough nor mentally stable enough to handle it.

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The Catcher in the Rye

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