JD Salinger (1919-2010)
Probably one of the most influential writers of the 20th century, JD Salinger brought a lot of attention to himself. Upon research, however, it seems like he didn't WANT the attention. He was a recluse, and was not seen in public very often. The whole thing is ironic, in a way. An crticle from NPR tells of:
"The hours spent cooped up alone, further complicating the story of a man who was secretive to begin with."
His only novel, The Catcher in the Rye, receieved a ton of mixed reviews (ranging from brilliant to horrible). A lot of people were offended by his use of racial slurs and profanity. "In the 1970s, several U.S. high school teachers who assigned the book were fired or forced to resign." A lot of the hate was based upon religion and 'morality' of the school system. However, many others found that book an amazing 'first novel by a secret author'.
This entire ordeal sparked curiousity throughout the literary world. From NPR: "Salinger tapped into the very heart of middle class dissatisfaction, of the dark side of domesticity. We want to get close to him because he remains such a mystery." Readers love hearing stories about the mysterious side of authors, who may or may not represent themselves in their novel. Mr. Salinger, I believe, did put some of his personality in Holden. Though in one interview, it states that JD loved drama, while Holden absolutely despises acting. One thing they do have in common is the misanthropy and reclusiveness.
Apart from all of this, JD Salinger led a very normal life. He married Claire Douglas at the age of 36 and had two children. He only started to become silent when he moved to Cornish, where he was rarely heard from again, cutting off all contact from the public and media. I honestly don't blame him, because the persistence some people have does get quite annoying. There's nothing 'mysterious' about his sudden disappearance, it's just his personality.
This entire ordeal sparked curiousity throughout the literary world. From NPR: "Salinger tapped into the very heart of middle class dissatisfaction, of the dark side of domesticity. We want to get close to him because he remains such a mystery." Readers love hearing stories about the mysterious side of authors, who may or may not represent themselves in their novel. Mr. Salinger, I believe, did put some of his personality in Holden. Though in one interview, it states that JD loved drama, while Holden absolutely despises acting. One thing they do have in common is the misanthropy and reclusiveness.
Apart from all of this, JD Salinger led a very normal life. He married Claire Douglas at the age of 36 and had two children. He only started to become silent when he moved to Cornish, where he was rarely heard from again, cutting off all contact from the public and media. I honestly don't blame him, because the persistence some people have does get quite annoying. There's nothing 'mysterious' about his sudden disappearance, it's just his personality.
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