Suicide is a Severe Topic in Catcher in the Rye Essay

Tone is an important part of J.D. Salingerr's ability to connect to the reader through Holdenr's voice, while still introducing the reader to more serious topics. Tone can be defined as the attitude the author or speaker has towards his subject. In this novel Holdenr's tone of narration and J.D. Salingerr's undertones differ greatly. Holden uses many informal slang words throughout the novel as he speaks to the reader in a very casual way. J.D. Salinger introduces many serious topics through the informal voice of his protagonist, giving the novel a more serious note. Even though Holdenr's tone in The Catcher in the Rye is very informal and sarcastic, J.D. Salingerr's undertones are much more serious. Holdenr's tone as he speaks to the reader is very informal and sarcastic as he discusses his experiences through New York City. In the first sentence of the novel Holden speaks very casually, using many slang words. The first thing youll probably want to know is where I was born, and what my lousy childhood was like...all that David Copperfield kind of crap, but I dont feel like going into it. (Salinger 1). Immediately Holden speaks to the reader using very casual vocabulary, including slang such as his use of lousy and crap. He talks to the reader as if he were having a conversation with them, as he uses the personal pronoun you. Holden frequently uses slang in the novel, he also uses basic non descriptive vocabulary. He often uses goddamn and phony and, dough instead of money, as well as low level non descriptive vocabulary such as like or nice. His non descriptive vocabulary leaves a very casual note in addition to the slang which is sarcastic and informal. Holdenr's tone is informal due to his use of personal pronouns, in addition to simple vocabulary and slang he uses sarcastically. J.D. Salingerr's undertones are more serious unlike his protagonist. J.D. Salinger addresses serious topics through Holdenr's experiences. Finally, what he did instead of taking back what he said, he jumped out the window. (Salinger 170). Suicide is a severe topic, Holden talking about his experiences with it gives J.D. Salinger the ability to talk about suicide in a relatable way, while still informing his readers on the dangers of suicide and depression. Salinger informs the reader through experiences Holden has. Holden is woken up on Mr. Antolinir's couch. Mr. Antolini is patting his head. Holden is immediately frightened by this and, as he leaves Mr. Antolinir's apartment, he mentions this kind of situation has happened to him many times before. J.D. Salinger leaves an impact on the reader as he warns them about perverts through Holdenr's disturbing experiences. J.D. Salinger brings serious undertones to the novel as he talks about suicide, depression and perverts.

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