Salinger’s indulgent Glass family narrative, set in mid-50s America, is a source of immense comfort and joy for me. The themes explored, such as social isolation and the struggle to fit into society, resonate deeply due to their familiarity. It is crucial for us, both as individuals and as social beings, to acknowledge the challenges of integration. The isolation experienced by the Glass family is partly a result of their inherent intellectual prowess, the burdens that come with their privileged upbringing, and their distinctive spiritual curiosity; an unconventional notion during the mid-1950s.
The issues they face can be seen as incredibly relatable, as it is not often discussed and dismissed as trivial. I truly believe the Glass family is Salinger’s long-lasting legacy, due to their relatability and richness in the characters. Franny and Zooey was originally published as two separate novellas and narrated from two different perspectives. Franny’s story is told from an unknown third person, while Zooey’s is told by their second elder brother Buddy Glass.
The novel begins with Franny, a 20-year-old college student visiting her boyfriend Lane in New York City. However, she finds the issues Lane discusses to be superficial, and irrelevant, leading to her question her existence alone. Franny seeks solace in Eastern Philosophy and in the book she carries, The Way of the Pilgrim, a reminder of her deceased brother. I believe Franny and Zooey is relatable due to Salinger’s meaningful approach to today’s renewed general interest in Spirituality and Eastern philosophy too.
The theme of spiritual direction is carried on in the second part Zooey, as it is narrated from Buddy’s point of view. I want to emphasise that Franny copes with her sorrow in a typical manner that is deemed appropriate for someone of her social status and personal background.
Conversely, Zooey, a sceptical young man in his mid-20s, takes on a very assertive demeanour and adheres to traditionally masculine traits. He treats his mother with bitter unkindness but holds dear memories of his two older brothers, Seymour and Buddy. Zooey even goes to the extent of pretending to be Buddy on the phone to Franny. She catches on to his act but the conversation continues. In other words, Zooey through Buddy performs as both a spiritual and a traditional brotherly figure. I believe this is Salinger’s way of challenging the societal expectations of gender roles during that time. Women are expected to handle things softly and always seek male guidance, while men are expected to be wilful solid leaders to emphasise their masculinity.
The novel is written in Salinger’s typical grand style, but it is also equally whimsical, with a smooth transition between passages, reflecting his introverted nature. Salinger admirably handles many topics. With how much I enjoy exploring this overlooked classic that is Franny and Zooey, I hope you too will enjoy reading about them year after year as often as I have.
Roux Magazine is made by students at the University of Luxembourg. We love their work, so we decided to team up with them and bring some of their articles to our audience as well. You can find all of their issues on Issuu.
