Analysis of the Characterization of Holden in The Catcher in the Rye from the Perspective of Conversation Analysis

The Catcher in the Rye, the only one full-length novel created by Jerome David Salinger, gains great popularity among people and even the whole literary world. The interlocutions in the novel are carefully designed by Salinger, which is also an important way to shape a character. This paper will analyze the conversations between Holden and other characters to discuss how the image of Holden is shaped. By rendering these theories of Conversation Analysis, the personalities of characters can be shown more vividly and comprehensively. Besides, the perspective of Conversation Analysis can also deepen themes and offer a new way for readers to tap into the inner world of characters.