Re: First Catcher memories?
AntiUtopia@aol.com
Sat, 29 Nov 1997 23:38:52 -0500 (EST)
I've loved this thread...
I read Catcher as an adult, and not that long ago. As a teenager, I would
have uncritically identified with H.C. and seen him as a hero...
As an adult, I identify with him knowing he is as I was. But I also see his
immaturity, and I wouldn't have done that if I read it as a teenager. HC
is aware enough of his ability to perceive others to fashion himself as a
Catcher, but he doesn't yet know himself, or understand how he himself
participates in the hypocrisy of the adult world. He wants to be a catcher,
but doesn't understand how badly he needs to be caught himself. Thank God
his sister was around.
The difference between the adult and the teenage perspective is that you
learn to apply these insights to yourself first, and as you do so you point
the finger less and less to others. Your insights into others causes you, as
you mature, to understand others rather than hate them for their weakness.
Holden didn't need a psychiatrist. He needed to see himself clearly, then
see others thru that light. He needed to accept his own worth in spite of
his weaknesses, then apply that sense of worth to others in spite of their
weaknesses. He needed Zooey calling him and imitating Buddy Glass... :)
Jim