Symbolism Blog

In the novel The Catcher in the Rye, the symbolism is very subtle, but it represents important and large topics and ideas to Holden. For example, the ducks in Central Park lagoon are just a side note in the back of Holden’s mind, but they represent Holden’s entire immature side. His curiosity sparks a childish flame in him. However, the subtle part about the ducks in the winter is that they go away, but return in the spring. They also represent Holden’s childish side because children are afraid of change, and the death of Holden really brings this fear to fruition. The symbols of the novel The Catcher in the Rye are subtle and cleverly included into the story such as the museum, yet they represent major roles and ideals in Holden’s life.