Top 4 The Catcher in the Rye quotes
“Life is a game, boy. Life is a game that one plays according to the rules.” Chapter 2, Mr. Spencer, speaking to Holden.
He is advising Holden with his apparent wisdom, but Holden dismisses it. This demonstrates not only his doubting contempt for adults and their “advice,” but also reveals some of Holden’s cynicism. His unverbalized response, apparent to the reader but not to Mr. Spencer, shows that Holden feels that it’s a game only for those who are privileged… for all others, there is no game.
“When I really worry about something, I don't just fool around. I even have to go to the bathroom when I worry about something. Only, I don't go. I'm too worried to go. I don't want to interrupt my worrying to go.” Chapter 6, Holden considering his own stress.
He is fully aware of his own penchant for worrying, which has become debilitating. He is far more invested in worrying than most people are. They are fake and phony. Holden, on the other hand, REALLY worries, and feels the pain and the fear of those he worries about.
“I’d just be the catcher in the rye and all.” Chapter 22, Holden Caulfield.
This is where the title of the book comes from, as Holden explains to his sister his dream of being a protector of children, by posting guard at the edge of a field of rye where the children play. If one should get too close to the edge—described by Holden as the edge of a cliff—he would catch them, to save them.
“The trouble was, that kind of junk is sort of fascinating to watch, even if you don’t want it to be… In my mind, I’m probably the biggest sex maniac you ever saw.” Chapter 9, Holden, relating his thoughts after witnessing odd behaviors in other hotel rooms.
He is fascinated, but disgusted. He is disappointed in human behaviors, but to the point that he cannot look away. This demonstrates the contempt that has been growing within in him towards “perverts,” while at the same time, he is also drawn to the behaviors himself. As always, he is conflicted.
