As I have read through this novel there have been many quotations or dialogues that have struck me and made me think. Among these numerous quotes, I believe this one is one of the most significant in this novel...
“Life is a game, boy. Life is a game that one plays according to the rules.”
“Yes, sir. I know it is. I know it.”
"Game, my ass. Some game. If you get on the side where all the hot-shots are, then it’s a game, all right—I’ll admit that. But if you get on the other side, where there aren’t any hot-shots, then what’s a game about it? Nothing. No game. "
This quote is from a conversation between the main character, Holden, while he is visiting of his old teachers and good friend, Spencer. Holden went over Spencer's house just to visit and catch up with him. They got on the topic of how Holden was failing multiple classes at the prep school he currently attended, so Spencer began to lecture him about the importance of playing by the rules and obeying authority. Holden became angry and annoyed by this lecture and even began to curse under his breath. This is significant because it displays some key aspects of Holden's character. First off, it demonstrates his indifference to adults and how he has trouble relating with them. Secondly, it shows us how alienated Holden really feels and how he relates with those who are on "the other side." It is significant to the work as a whole because it is this scene that reveals how Holden feels victimized and that the world is against him. It is this quote that sheds some light on why Holden has made a psychological barrier that guards him against the complexities of the world. It illuminates one of the key themes of this novel which is Holden's fear of growing up. He feels that as one matures they lose their innocence and creativity. Ultimately, it gives some reason to why Holden is so defiant to his superiors and elders and why he hopes to never grow old.
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