The Catcher in the Rye was my absolute favorite required reading in middle and high school and it became a comfort book for me during those years. I identified pretty closely to Holden and would reread the book whenever I struggled mentally. I've never admitted that though because everyone thinks Holden is insufferable and hates him lol.
I just read a comment from a pretty old thread saying anyone who relates to Holden needs to go to therapy. The commenter was so serious about it too, he was genuinely concerned about Holden apologists' mental state. Anyway I'm in my late 20s now, diagnosed with ADHD, depression, and anxiety, and am on a cocktail of meds keeping me together. I thought it was funny how spot on the commenter was. Does anyone else relate, is this really a trend amongst Holden fans?
I'm going to try to find my old copy of the book to read and see how I view Holden now. I think I'll always be able to empathize with his character, but as a fairly mentally adjusted adult, I doubt I'd still relate to him as much as teenage me did.
by chimkenhorde