senior study - take two

So continuing from where I left off...
    As I read on I found the relationships between Holden and his roommate, Stradlater, and their other somewhat "roommate", Ackley, interesting.  It's funny because you would think that Holden would be more like Ackley in the way that Ackley is so judgmental.  Holden seems like the kind of kid that would be very against the "Mr. Popular" type in his school and would be the rebellious one and not apart of the "popular" crowd.  But it's kind of the opposite.  Ackley is the judgemental one that doesn't like Stradlater for reasons that are slightly unknown, mostly   just because of his pre-conceived notions about a kid with good looks and is a lady's man.  Also, almost every quirk about Ackley is because of jealousy.  He is very nosy and goes through every one's stuff probably because he is interested in their lives and wants to admire the social aspect of their life that is not really a part of his.  So you almost have to feel bad for Ackley, since he seems to be so lonely, but it's hard to because he is so rude to others.
Stradlater on the other hand, you can't help but like (at least a little).  He's the type of kid that looks so put-together and tough on the outside but has a soft teddy-bear-like inside.  He's kind of the image of the person that Holden could have been if he would have worked hard in school and stuck with it.

This book has been a good read so far.  I don't have to force myself to sit down and read a chapter or two.  It has been an enjoyable read so far and I'm looking forward to reading more about Jane and Holden. :)

senior study - take one

The first book I am going to tackle is The Catcher in the Rye.  My first impressions of the book are pretty vague so far, but the main character, Holden Caulfield, is very intriguing and convinces you that you must keep reading.  His raw attitude towards life is interesting and unique, and his "no-care-in-the-world" attitude definitely stands out.
One of the first relationships presented is one with Holden and his ex-history teacher old Spencer.  The two obviously like each other and enjoy each others company deep-down (since old Spencer asked to see Holden one last time), but while talking they both seem irritated and stubborn.  I also like the way that Holden is describing the scene to the reader, his feelings about what is going on is very blunt.  He "cuts the crap" and isn't afraid to speak the truth.  He definitely stands out from the typical high schooler.
As far as how this relates to my "inner-conflict" study theme...I don't really think it does just yet, but as obstacles rise I'm sure we will see that side of him.