Catcher In The Rye Morality Quotes

J.D. Salinger’s The Catcher in the Rye displays a true moral that though your actions may seem those of a developed character, the inspiration behind those actions might not be mature. Throughout the novel, Holden Caulfield, the protagonist, defies his youthful innocence by being expelled from school, smoking cigarettes, and being exposed to adultery like female escorts. Salinger includes a quote (originally by Wilhelm Stekel) said by Mr. Antolini, stating, “The mark of the immature man is that he wants to die nobly for a cause, while the mark of a mature man is that he wants to live humbly for one.” This very philosophical, yet simple quote provides a great explanation as to why Holden shouldn’t die trying to save children from losing their innocence, but rather to devote his time trying to keep children from turning into what Holden has become. Holden’s ultimate desire near the end of the novel, is that he wants to be “the catcher in the rye” which theoretically means one whom catches young

Anti-violence and crime advocates throughout the United States such as Bruce George have learned, through harsh experiences that one must live trying to set a great example and keep the youth from being drawn into the dark part of the world, instead of escaping their situation in hopes of leaving a legacy for kids to learn from. People who go from prison to podium to motivate young people to be the good in society are those who have developed as people, and reflect upon their past to make sure that the future of this world is clear from the negativity of their own life. In conclusion, Mr. Antolini’s assertion exhibits true wisdom, as it tells both Holden and the reader that it’s not a very great idea to sacrifice your life to leave a legacy. However, it’s best if you show how you have developed and matured through experiences, and give the youth some insight as to what is to come if they choose the wrong