nihilism

            
             Nihilism is the belief that life and traditional values are both futile and useless. It focuses on the more grim side of life and the futility of the human condition. Such themes can be seen in some of the most notable literary works of the twentieth century. Although never claiming to be nihilists, such writers as F. Scott Fitzgerald, J.D. Salinger, John Steinbeck, and poet T.S. Eliot infused elements of this philosophy into their writings. In each of their most famous novels and poems, some aspect of Nihilism can be found. In the novels of the above mentioned writers, their protagonist have been destroyed by either the cruelty of the world around them or their own inability to realize the falseness of the dream which they hoped to attain. In the poems of T.S. Eliot he describes a world in which all hopes and ambitions are lost. He paints a picture that shows this life as a wasteland for the soul. .
             J.D. Salinger's The Catcher in the Rye, incorporates several nihilistic aspects. In the novel the principle character, Holden Caulfeild embarks on what is to become a four-day odessy through New York City. By observing the actions and the dialogue used by Holden, one can see that nihilism is a prevalent theme throughout the novel. In the early chapters we find out that Holden has been expelled from Pencey Prep, the private academy which he attends, because he has failed to pass four of his classes. From this one situation it can be deduced that Holden does not seem to see any benefit in successfully pursuing his education. He sees it as useless, worthless, and futile. This point of view is a key component of nihilism. His character traits also demonstrate a nihilistic approach to life. He is a chronic liar, which he clearly makes known early in the novel when he states " I"m the most terrific liar you ever saw in your life" (Salinger 16). This indicates that he has little respect or regard for the traditional value of telling the truth.