In J.D. Salinger’s “Catcher in the Rye” the theme of change over time recurs in the novel through the usage of symbols. His anxiety is shaped by the personal burdens he undergoes which then leads him to a slow realization that change is inevitable and he too must progress. Two symbols Salinger uses to display Holden’s hostility and apprehension towards growth are the ducks and the carousel in Central Park.
Holden contemplating the location of the ducks demonstrates his progression in overcoming his fears and opposition. Initially, Holden believes “... some guy came in a truck and took them away to a zoo or something… ” (13). This signifies that the ducks that are being taken away are cared for, something that Holden longs for which is why he is fond of this idea. Another soothing idea for Holden is the fact that the ducks disappear and then reappear, this may symbolize that change is not long-lasting. Additionally, the lagoon is a metaphor for Holden’s …show more content…
Ironically, the carousel is operating during the winter; he encourages Phoebe to ride while he watches--he is accepting adulthood. The shape of the ride is circular, illustrating that it is cycling in the same path instead of moving forward. The only thing that seems to be changing are the people who ride it, they mature. It still plays the same song as it did when Holden was a little boy, further exemplifying the idea that it is constant. Holden tries to evade change but the carousel is where he has an epiphany. On the carousel is a gold ring, Phoebe, who is riding the carousel, reaches for the ring and Holden observes her. “The thing with kids is, if they want to grab for the gold ring you have to let them do it, and not say anything. If they fall off, they fall off, but it’s bad if you say anything to them” (211), he is coming to the conclusion that he can not prevent the inevitable that he must let the children “fall” in order for them to become
Holden contemplating the location of the ducks demonstrates his progression in overcoming his fears and opposition. Initially, Holden believes “... some guy came in a truck and took them away to a zoo or something… ” (13). This signifies that the ducks that are being taken away are cared for, something that Holden longs for which is why he is fond of this idea. Another soothing idea for Holden is the fact that the ducks disappear and then reappear, this may symbolize that change is not long-lasting. Additionally, the lagoon is a metaphor for Holden’s …show more content…
Ironically, the carousel is operating during the winter; he encourages Phoebe to ride while he watches--he is accepting adulthood. The shape of the ride is circular, illustrating that it is cycling in the same path instead of moving forward. The only thing that seems to be changing are the people who ride it, they mature. It still plays the same song as it did when Holden was a little boy, further exemplifying the idea that it is constant. Holden tries to evade change but the carousel is where he has an epiphany. On the carousel is a gold ring, Phoebe, who is riding the carousel, reaches for the ring and Holden observes her. “The thing with kids is, if they want to grab for the gold ring you have to let them do it, and not say anything. If they fall off, they fall off, but it’s bad if you say anything to them” (211), he is coming to the conclusion that he can not prevent the inevitable that he must let the children “fall” in order for them to become