The Catcher in the Rye

Holden Caulfield displays multiple symptoms of depression.

Holden Caulfield frequently asks this question to avoid his problems.

Holden Caulfield is still grieving over the death of his younger brother, Allie.

In chapter 13, Holden accepts an offer from an elevator operator to have a prostitute sent to his hotel room. Before she arrives, Holden contemplates his history of failed sexual experiences. When he is unable to have sex, he gets angry and frustrated and blames Sunny for making him depressed.

Holden Caulfield has a questionable encounter with his former teacher, Mr. Antolini.

Holden Caulfield is disgusted with the fakeness of society.

Holden 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.

Holden Caulfield tries to protect the innocence of his younger sister, Phoebe.

Holden Caulfield is worried about the innocence of his childhood friend, Jane Gallagher.

Throughout the Catcher in the Rye Holden Caulfield is struggling with his sexuality and has trouble establishing physical relationships. He is unable to clearly differentiate between the emotional responses related to being intimate and having sex.