Caulfield's Implicature

Speranza

How Does Salinger Use Dialogue in Order to Develop Character Relationships?

In "The Catcher in the Rye," J. D. Salinger uses dialogue to not only portray Holden Caulfield's state of Griceian mind, but to also create an idiosyncratic character. 

Dialogue is a crucial technique as it gives insight into the purpose involvement of characters and can have a significant impact on the upcoming events in the story. 

The effective use and incorporation of dialogue allows the different aspects of the novel to function in unity and cohesion. 

The Griceian must discuss about how dialogue is used to develop Holdens relationships with the other characters. 

A major part of the story is set at Pencey Prep where we are introduced to Holdens roommates. 

The relationship he shares with his peers is an important aspect at the beginning of the novel because we develop an understanding of Holdens character. 

Whilst his belligerence and negative feelings towards Stradlater and Ackley are clearly portrayed by his thoughts, the dialogue shared between the characters gives a deeper insight into the minds of the other characters. 

The relationship that the three men share is largely comprised of repulsing mannerisms, insults and aggressive physical behaviour. 

Prior to going on his date with Jane Gallagher, Stradlater asks Holden to write his composition for class, but Caulfield's reluctance to do so sparks the following conversation between them I dont know. New York, if we have time. She only signed out for nine-thirty, for Chrissake. (Salinger 44). 

The dialogue used here really represents the friction between Holden and Stradlater. 

Stradlater clearly views himself as being superior to Holden whilst Holden sees Stradlater as an irritating, insensitive and impudent person.

Moreover, Ackleys character is not mentioned as frequently but it is theoretically possible that him and Holden share an uncanny similarity in terms of their personalities.