How Does Holden Present Depression In Catcher In The Rye

The cause of depression can vary from many aspects such as a devastating loss or a terrible incident. Depression is neither inevitable nor a character flaw, however the emotional pain, a persistent feeling of anger and sadness, is demonstrated through the protagonist in J.D Salinger’s novel, The Catcher in the Rye. Holden Caulfield, the young teenager in the novel, struggles with several tragic experiences that contributes to his depression. Holden Caulfield’s depressive state of mind causes him to isolate himself from society and serves as a primary reason for his difficulty dealing with others. Initially, Holden is prohibited from attending Pencey Prep due to his poor academic grades. As a result, this causes Holden’s manic and uncontrollable behaviors, as he tries to cope with his problems

Due to his tragic experiences he experiences, Holden Caulfield primarily struggles with depression in J.D Salinger’s novel. Although Holden experiences several states of depression in the novel, he turns to his dead brother as a meaningful presence during his depressive state. Due to his feeling of disappointment and sadness, Holden refuses to acknowledge and live up to people’s expectations. Holden’s terrifying fear of becoming a phony adult causes his alienation from his family and society. Alienation occurs as a response to tragic situations in an individual's life and results in loneliness. Suffering from depression, Holden evolves painful habits such as smoking to escape his mind and from his feelings. J.D Salinger highlights the impact of depression experienced by the protagonist, Holden Caulfield in his novel. The death of his brother Allie, consternation of the adult world, and isolation from society all contribute to Holden’s depression and manic