Though Holden usually alienates himself as a way of protecting himself, he is also desperate for companionship - it is a constant conflict which he doesn't balance well. He's particularly desperate for the company of others when he feels emotionally (or in this case, physically and emotionally) hurt. At the moment he is so messed up by the fight with Stradlater and the potential loss of Jane's innocence that he's eager to spend time with Ackley.Loneliness and depression are motifs in Catcher. As Holden's journey continues following this chap ...view middle of the document...
I was personally acquainted with at least two girls he gave the time to. That's the truth."Again, in no time, and even when Holden desires attention and friendship the most, he ends up alienating himself by being critical, pretentious, or disrespectful. Holden behaves this way to protect his feelings-Alienation as a form of self protection is a major theme of the book.- leaves acklyHolden feels guilty about how disappointed his parents will be once they learn that he's failed out of school again, adding another layer to his depression. Knowing that his mother put all this effort into buying a gift for him, while he wont even put in the effort to pass all of his classes at a school his parents paid for, really bothers him.On some level, the death of Allie - that Holden still lives but doesn't handle life well or school easily - contributes to this guilt for Holden.-skatesLike many people, Holden is not completely honest or straightforward when he's discussing something that might make him seem vulnerable. Whenever he begins crying in his story, Holden usually says he was "sort of crying."last para sortof cryingSome light comic relief, or something deeper? Holden "almost" breaks his neck again on another set of stairs, at the end of chapter 23.peanuts
