J. D. Salinger: Catcher In The Rye

I read the book at my wife's behest. It really wasn't for me. I asked Claude to explain the historical significance of the novel, and after reading more about the context in which it was published, I understand why it matters as a historical artifact. I am just not a literature historian.

Reading the text in my own context didn't have much of an impact. I didn't enjoy inhabiting the mind of a cynical self-focused 19 year old.

I feel better about my general disposition to avoid "classics," though I'm glad most schools make it part of the required curriculum. Reading this made me wonder if I actually just don't enjoy reading in general. But I hope the next book I choose will remind me that it can be a joyful experience.