Seymour Glass
Thomas Martel (strydero@webtv.net)
Wed, 06 Oct 1999 17:53:50 -0400 (EDT)
Hello,
I am an undergraduate at MCLA. I was asked to read Salinger's
"Nine Stories" for a literature course. After reading, the class was
instructed to write about the characters and how they represent a
conflict with society. I wrote about Seymour Glass.
I received a C due to my misinterpretation of the character. I
believed that Seymour was not only suffering from the trauma of war, but
also from pedophilia. I supported this with Seymour's conversation with
Sybil and his behavior before and after their meeting on the beach. I
also used Seymour's reference to Sharon (desire). I concluded that
Seymour knew it was a perfect day, because he knew he was going to kill
himself- the actions lending the courage to each other.
Is there anyone, other than myself, that believed that Seymour was
suffering from pedophilia? If so, is it thought that his illness led to
his suicide? I don't know if this is the appropriate forum for asking
these questions. If it is not, could anyone point me in the right
direction? I would be most appreciative, if someone could assist me.
Thank you.
Regards,
Thomas Martel