Sep 4, 2008

The Catcher in the Rye | Chapter 4 Summary and Analysis

New Characters
Howie Coyle: a student and basketball player at Pencey Prep

Jane Gallagher: an old friend of Holden’s who goes on a date with Stradlater

Summary
Holden engages in conversation with Stradlater while he prepares for his date. Holden makes a point of describing Stradlater as a person who is excessively concerned about his personal appearance, but, in reality, is a “secret slob.” While he is shaving, Stradlater asks Holden to do him a favor: to write a composition for him. He cautions Holden not to make it too good, for fear that the teacher will...