Loneliness is a big part of Holden's life. Ever since the death of his brother, Allie, he distances himself from everyone. The book starts off with him being alone watching the football game from afar. He continues to be alone until the end of the book. Holden distances himself from others, in order to not get attached. He fears of losing someone he is close to again. Holden likes to blame other people for him being alone, when in reality it is his choice.
"I was crying and all. I don't know why, but I was. I guess it was because I was feeling so damn depressed and lonesome." (Chapter 20, Page 153)
"All I did was, I got up and went over and looked out the window. I felt so lonesome, all of a sudden. I almost wished I was dead." (Chapter 7, Page 48)
" I just didn't want to hang around anymore. It made me too sad and lonesome." (Chapter 7, Page 51)