I first read this book in high school, like millions of other
people I guess, and once again as an adult. Though the book has a lot of energy
and power, I think it is somewhat over-rated. To me, it is an interesting
narrative told by an outsider who is struggling with a severe case of isolation
and depression. This is important, and Salinger was obviously committed to the
task when he did it. But its like a snapshot in time, and not actually a robust
or well rounded work. Holden is articulate, upset, angst-ridden, and literate.
This is true of many teenagers in all times, but with Caulfield these things
are taken to extremes for whatever reason and it seems he suffers not simply
dark periods but nervous breakdowns. Its an important story, and should be
read. It belongs in the canon, yes, I can see that, but somehow to me it is not
a towering achievement or the finest example of what literature can be. There
are too many other works out there whose characters are more fleshed out and
numerous, whose pages have scenarios that are wider and more textured.
RATING 6/10
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