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Leaves Pencey and Heads to New York
Holden sneaks out and boards a train to NYC, which ,marks his break from formal institutions and his transition into isolation. -
Holden has Date with Sally Hayes
Holden meets Sally, they go to a show, and he asks her to run away with him. This reveals his impulsiveness and desire to escape phoniness. -
Stays at the Edmont Hotel
He checks into a shady hotel and sees bizarre things from his window, this shows his discomfort with the city and loneliness. -
Holden has Phone Call to Mr. Antolini
Holden visits his former English teacher who gives him advice, but creeps him out. This event shows that he still mistrusts people even though they want to help him -
Holden Gets Expelled from Pencey Prep
Holden learns he’s been expelled for failing four out of five subject, this kick's off his emotional physical journey -
Fight with Stradlater
Holden writes an essay for Stradlater and gets into a fistfight over Jane Gallagher. This event gives the reader insight over his insecurity, jealousy, and protectiveness over Jane. -
Encounter with Sunny the Prostitute
Holden agrees to meet a prostitute but just talks to her; ends up getting beat up. This event demonstrates that Holden wants personal connection not sex. -
Holden Visits Phoebe
He sneaks into his home and talks to his sister, Phoebe. This moment shows that his sister is like an anchor to him emotionally and showcases a moment that is quite tender. -
Holden Watches Phoebe on the Carousel
He watches her ride the carousel in Central Park, and he begins to cry. Watching Pheobe enjoy herself brought him joy that he rarely witnessed, which shows that hope and love for Holden moving forward. -
Phoebe Tries to Run Away with Him
Phoebe insists on coming with Holden when he says he’s leaving. This event forced Holden to econsider his decisions and sense of responsibility.