2. What problems does Holden have with authority?

“Life is a game, boy. Life is a game that one plays according to the rules.”(12) This is advice that is given to Holden by Mr. Spencer, Holden’s favourite teacher from Pency Prep. Holden is inconsistent with his views on authority. There are many rules that he follows without question, such as paying for food and clothing, whereas some rules he breaks constantly, even his own. In chapter 9, Holden discusses his "sex rule" which stated, "last year I made a rule that I was going to quit horsing around with girls that, deep down, give me a pain in the ass."(82) then that very night Holden "spent the whole night necking with a terrible phony". Another rule that Holden breaks very often is his consumption of alcohol. The drinking age in both Pennsylvania and New York was 18 in the 1950’s. One of the main reasons Holden lacks authority within himself is because he doesn't have an authoritative figure to look up to. With the little communication he shares with his parents and his feelings towards adults makes finding an authority figure difficult. Holden struggles to find an authoritative figure many times throughout the course of the novel, but each time something prevents his efforts. For example, when Holden is looking to Mr. Spencer as an imposing figure he abruptly decides to leave for New York, leaving Mr. Spencer behind. Holden’s authoritative problems shows the reader his inner conflict like how he is unable to decide what is best for himself.