EPISODE · Sep 17, 2021 · 29 MIN
THE CATCHER IN THE RYE: A Terrible ‘Classic’
from A. Idle Book Reviews · host A. Idle
J. D. Salinger penned this novel in the late 40’s depicting the internal conflicts of Holden Caulfield. Holden’s story reflects the struggles of many teens trying to find their way in the world. However, this tedious narrative is but a page in the book of life. A page that includes no excitement, power, strength, ambition or laughs, only miserable excuses. There is nothing to learn from a character who refuses to learn themselves. Undoubtedly Salinger is a good writer, but this piece isn’t something worthy of high praise. So what’s the lesson here? We should stop labeling books as classics, just because they ruffled a few feathers upon release.
What this episode covers
J. D. Salinger penned this novel in the late 40’s depicting the internal conflicts of Holden Caulfield. Holden’s story reflects the struggles of many teens trying to find their way in the world. However, this tedious narrative is but a page in the book of life. A page that includes no excitement, power, strength, ambition or laughs, only miserable excuses. There is nothing to learn from a character who refuses to learn themselves. Undoubtedly Salinger is a good writer, but this piece isn’t something worthy of high praise. So what’s the lesson here? We should stop labeling books as classics, just because they ruffled a few feathers upon release.
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THE CATCHER IN THE RYE: A Terrible ‘Classic’
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