UNDERSTANDING PSYCHOLOGICAL REALISM IN J.D.SALENGER’S WORKS

Abstract

J.D. Salinger, one of the most influential American writers of the 20th century, is renowned for his intricate and deeply psychological portrayal of characters. His works, particularly The Catcher in the Rye and Franny and Zooey, have captivated readers for decades with their profound exploration of themes like alienation, identity, innocence, and spiritual searching. Central to Salinger’s literary success is his distinctive approach to character description, which goes beyond mere physical attributes and focuses instead on the internal, emotional, and psychological landscapes of his protagonists. Unlike many other writers who rely on external traits to shape their characters, Salinger uses a range of methods such as dialogue, internal monologue, narrative perspective, and symbolic elements to create richly developed characters that engage readers on a deeply personal level.