Themes

Alienation

Holden always feels that he doesn't fit in and emphasizes it with his red hunting cap. This is his protection from the real world

Growing Up

Holden fears the idea of growing up. He hates change and tries to stop maturity. He believes that all adults are phonies and he wants to stop the innocent children from turning into them.

Sexuality

Throughout the story, Holden struggles with his emerging interests in sex. He is terrified yet entrigued at the same time.

Symbols

The Ducks

The ducks symbolize change that is temporary. Holden fears permanent change so he tries to figure out how the ducks disappear every winter but come back in the spring.

Catcher in the Rye

This refers to what Holden wants to do with his life. He imagines a cliff with a field of rye at the top. The field would be full of children and he would catch any kid about to fall off the cliff.

Red Hunting Hat

This hat stands for many things. It is a very unique cap, symbolizing Holden's individuality. It is red, like the color of Allie and Phoebe's hair. He also wears it backwards like a catcher in baseball, refering to his dream job.

The Museum of Natural History

The museum symbolizes what Holden views as a perfect world. A world where nothing changes.