Pencey Prep

Where is Holden going at the end of Chapter 7?

Pencey Prep

How did Holden react to Allie’s death?

Allie’s death greatly affects Holden in the jaded way Holden looks at life, in how he struggles to connect with people, and in the way he feels the need to protect youthful innocence. Holden says, “He got leukemia and died . . .

Why does Holden’s mind now revert to Jane?

Why does his mind now revert to Jane at the beginning of Chapter 11? Because he likes her a lot and she is one of the few people who Holden views as innocent and not phony. What is implied in Holden’s criticism of Ernie?

Why does Holden see Mr Spencer?

Holden decides to visit Mr. Spencer in the beginning of the novel in order to say goodbye to the teacher. Holden feels that he should say goodbye to Mr. Spencer because he is the only teacher that Holden actually liked at Pencey.

What emotion is Holden feeling when Stradlater returns from his date with Jane?

Stradlater comes back from his date with Jane. Holden feels nervous when he comes back and Stradlater is upset about the composition of the baseball mitt. Holden asks him about the date, but doesn’t get a clear response.

What bothers Holden the most about Robert Ackley?

Robert Ackley is a student living in the room next to Holden at school. He has lousy personal hygiene and a terrible personality. What does Ackley do that annoys Holden? Ackley never sits down in a chair, he comes into rooms when he’s not invited, he cuts his nails on the floor, he doesn’t brush his teeth, etc.

Why does Holden cry at the end of Chapter 7?

Holden cries because the seriousness of his school situation, his frustrating life, and his feelings of depression and loneliness all crash down on him at once.

Why did Holden leave Elkton Hills school?

Holden leaves Elkton Hills mainly because of the phonies he sees on the prep school campus. He describes them as “coming through the windows” because there are so many. It really is an excuse to “quit” because he was about to be kicked out of Elkton Hills because of his grades.

What does Holden say about Ackley describe him what bothers Holden about him so much?

Ackley says that what makes a basketball player is his build. This annoys Holden because what makes a player good is talent and skill.

What emotions do the new skates create?

The Catcher in the Rye

Question	Answer
What emotions do the new skates create?	Frustration, anger, guilt.
In what condition does Holden leave Pencey?	He is sad but relieved. He has a bloody nose.
Why does Holden give a false name to Mrs. Morrow?	He does not feel like telling her who he actually is and wants to mess with her.

Why is Holden so protective of Jane?

Holden is nervous about his going out with Jane because of Stradlater’s sexual experience. He does not want Stradlater to make a move on Jane because he fancies her for himself (despite being too awkward to do anything about it). Holden uses the term “nervous,” but actually he feels jealous, possessive, and protective.