If you really want to hear about it, the first thing you'll probably want to know is where I was born, and what my lousy childhood was like, and how my parents were occupied and all that before they had me, and all that David Copperfield kind of crap, but I don't feel like going into it, if you want to know the truth.
I was really sad today when I heard that JD Salinger passed away, although he was 91 years old and I hope lived a good life. Anyone who knows me well knows I cherish the The Catcher in the Rye. Even though I went on and on (I think) at book group this Fall about how much the book and Holden and it all meant to me, I still don't know if I can put it all into words. It's just one of those books that changes you. And I love that Holden Caulfield and his sister Phoebe.
Ironically, I don't think I even read Catcher until I was in college...although I have since read it several times. I admit I am also obsessed with this beautiful red cover. I have about 7 copies and have to buy it whenever I see it - although it's been awhile since I've seen one which kinda makes me sad too.
Lastly, Catcher is the one book that I can't understand people not getting. Here is where my bookish snobbery comes out--which I can always put aside EXCEPT with this book. It's you and not the book. You just don't mess with this book. That's all.
If you haven't read this book or anything by Salinger, I hope you do.
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5 comments:
This book was pretty influential for me too...but maybe not in a good way. It didn't make me feel good. But I suppose that's the point :) And the way it gets under your skin proves Salinger's writing skill.
I read Franny & Zooey this summer and liked it a lot.
Robin I think what I love the most is the way Holden thinks and speaks in the novel. And Salinger just makes us empathize so hard with Holden it hurts.
I need to read Franny & Zooey again!
Yes, Holden's voice is very fascinating. And really catchy...I found myself thinking things in his sort of phrases later on, and feeling his sort of apathy. And that worried me I guess! Ha ha.
I always feel kind of stymied when I talk to people who hated The Catcher in the Rye. Like you, I didn't read it until I was in college, but since I've reread it many, many times.
Such a beautiful book cover...not that I'm judging a book by it's cover, or anything :) Confession: I've never read Catcher, but not that it's been SO strongly recommended by someone I trust, I'll definitely check it out! :)
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