Symbolism in 'The Catcher in the Rye'

Front

Red hunting hat

Back

The hat is an object of comfort for Holden.

Front

Ducks

Back

His feelings of constant migration and loneliness, his need for help but unwillingness to accept it, and the uncertainty of his path in the world.

Front

Green dress

Back

The dress shows the blurred line between innocence and corruption of the adult world.

Front

The fist

Back

The fist is associated with perseverance, which Holden seems to be lacking. It is a reminder of Allie and when he died.

Front

The golden ring

Back

Holden is finally able to accept that children grow up and cannot be protected from that natural part of life.

Front

Suitcases

Back

Suitcases represent the way money and class can separate people from one another.

Front

Museum

Back

Holden does not like change, and wishes things (innocence) and children could stay the same and not be exposed to the harsh realities of people, the world, and growing up. Children should be like a museum and remain frozen, still, unchanging.