I personally never focused on that? He definitely did, but not sure how it relates to the greater narrative

Did a thesis on Salinger’s works, and was taught by the leading Salinger expert, here are some thoughts:

1). Catcher is actually the last book of Salinger’s you should read. The story is “written” by a man named Buddy Glass, second eldest.

2). When you explore Salinger’s other works (Nine Stories, Raise high the roof beams, Franny and Zooey, and Seymour: an introduction) you get a better sense of the character of Holden.

3). I argue that Holden is just an extension of the author (Buddy). Both have brothers who died. It’s the exploration of Buddy’s feelings towards his brother, Seymour, committing suicide.

4). I also argue that this brings the whole exploration full circle. It’s a book of mourning, not teenage angst as most people see it.