This position holds that death is an overarching theme of The Catcher in the Rye. It argues the novel is shaped by Holden Caulfield's grief over his brother Allie's death and by his own dark, suicidal thoughts, which colour his troubled view of the world around him.
Supporting arguments · 2
- Allie CaulfieldHolden Caulfield is still grieving over the death of his younger brother, Allie.
- Holden Caulfield's suicidal thoughtsHolden displays intense emotion and turbulent behavior throughout the novel, suggesting he is deeply discontented and depressed. As a result, he routinely says that he must commit suicide and often fantasizes about it.