“A Perfect Day for Bananafish” and “Teddy”: Salinger’s Commentary on the American Society In J.D. Salinger’s Nine Stories, featuring “A Perfect Day for Bananafish” and “Teddy”, he skillfully illustrates the societal struggles of materialism and worldliness, and its destructive impact on people’s personal lives. Through his complex characters, Salinger depicts how the American lifestyle erodes the core values of family, as shown in his portrayal of marriage, and the neglect of children. Furthermore, the motif of rejection is used to characterize the two main protagonists shown in these short stories. Overall, “A Perfect Day for Bananafish” and “Teddy” provide meaningful comparison and contrast about society, the demise of human nature, and
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In “A Perfect Day for Bananafish”, an estranged marriage is presented between Muriel and Seymour Glass. It is evident, at some point, they had a very loving relationship, as the residuals of their affection are shown through Muriel’s defense of Seymour against her mother, and Seymour, choosing to look at his wife just before committing suicide. However, in the present, there is a lack of understanding on Muriel’s behalf, as she is not fully aware of his mental illness, or at least expresses minimal concern for Seymour. For Seymour Glass, he is not only unable to communicate with his wife, but also, is detached from the relationship altogether. This is shown through his isolation from her, and the absence of any meaningful interaction. A different damaged relationship is conveyed in “Teddy”, reflected through Mr. and Mrs. McArdle’s marriage, where there is a constant exchange of harsh and hurtful comments. For example, Mr. McArdle threatens Mrs. McArdle, saying to her, “I’d like to kick your goddam head open.” (Salinger, 168) to which Mrs. McArdle responds with indifference. She states that she will not care when he dies, and in fact, will be flirting with other men at his funeral. Consequently, their conversation demonstrates the utter lack of care and sensitivity in their marriage. Moreover, it is clear that within Mr. and Mrs. McArdle’s relationship, their own selfishness and petty concerns have blinded them to the fundamental values that truly matter, like family and marriage. In both the Glass and McArdle marriage, a true appreciation of each other is missing; it is apparent that a marriage which lacks trust and compassion, will inevitably lead to problems. Salinger’s short stories bring attention to the significance of communication and understanding in any
In “A Perfect Day for Bananafish”, an estranged marriage is presented between Muriel and Seymour Glass. It is evident, at some point, they had a very loving relationship, as the residuals of their affection are shown through Muriel’s defense of Seymour against her mother, and Seymour, choosing to look at his wife just before committing suicide. However, in the present, there is a lack of understanding on Muriel’s behalf, as she is not fully aware of his mental illness, or at least expresses minimal concern for Seymour. For Seymour Glass, he is not only unable to communicate with his wife, but also, is detached from the relationship altogether. This is shown through his isolation from her, and the absence of any meaningful interaction. A different damaged relationship is conveyed in “Teddy”, reflected through Mr. and Mrs. McArdle’s marriage, where there is a constant exchange of harsh and hurtful comments. For example, Mr. McArdle threatens Mrs. McArdle, saying to her, “I’d like to kick your goddam head open.” (Salinger, 168) to which Mrs. McArdle responds with indifference. She states that she will not care when he dies, and in fact, will be flirting with other men at his funeral. Consequently, their conversation demonstrates the utter lack of care and sensitivity in their marriage. Moreover, it is clear that within Mr. and Mrs. McArdle’s relationship, their own selfishness and petty concerns have blinded them to the fundamental values that truly matter, like family and marriage. In both the Glass and McArdle marriage, a true appreciation of each other is missing; it is apparent that a marriage which lacks trust and compassion, will inevitably lead to problems. Salinger’s short stories bring attention to the significance of communication and understanding in any