Holden is determined to live out the childhood that his dead brother Allie never got the chance to experience. Growing up terrifies Holden because adulthood leads to “phoniness”. At the end of the novel, Holden describes himself wearing the hunting hat. Rain came down, in “buckets” which causes Holden’s clothing to become drenched (212). He mentions that the hat “gave [him] quite a lot of protection” which is symbolic of what his brother’s death means to him. Holden is fearful to undergo the transition from adolescence to adulthood.
Holden’s encounter with the cab driver represents the unknowingness of his future. As Holden struggles with his independence, he continues to embrace adulthood. His concern is expressed through his questions to
Holden’s encounter with the cab driver represents the unknowingness of his future. As Holden struggles with his independence, he continues to embrace adulthood. His concern is expressed through his questions to