The Catcher in the Rye Notes

Chapter 1
Holden Caulfield is in a rest home which he has been sent in for therapy.
Will not talk about his early life
Brother D.B Hollywood writer, (bitter as he believes brother sold out to Hollywood)
Tells his story starting with his departure from Pencey Prep ( famous school in Agerstown, Pennsylvania)
Does not apply himself in Pency Prep( failed 4/5 classes only passed English)
Manger of the schools fencing team and is supposed to be in New York for a meet, but lost teams equipment.
Wants to say goodbye to the school
Heavy smoker

Chapter 2
“Life is a game, boy. Life is a game that one plays according to the rules.” “His former teacher is needling him about his failures at Pencey; at this point, he lectures Holden about the importance of playing by the rules. The conversation succinctly illuminates key aspects of Holden’s character.”

Meets with Mr. Spencer and his wife
Spencer lectures Holden about his failures.
While Spencer lectures Holden interrupt Spencer and leaves.

Chapter 3
Lives in Ossenburger Hall (named after a wealthy Pencey graduate)
Ackley often interrupts Holden ( disgusting personal habits and poor hygiene)
Holden reading Isak Dinesen’s Out of Africa ( Ackley disturbs his reading)
Annoys Holden with pasturing questions
Ackely leaves after Stradlater ( Holden’s roommate)

Chapter 4
Stradlater wants Holden to write him a English Composition for him
Stradlater taking out a girl that Holden knows (Jane Gallagher)
Holden has feelings for Jane
Holden not happy has Stradlater is sexually active
Holden is tormented by thoughts of Jane and Stradlater