“We're freaks, the two of us, Franny and I. I'm a twenty-five-year-old freak and she's a twenty-one-year-old freak, and both those bastards are responsible. I swear to you, I could murder them both without batting an eyelash. The great teachers. The great emancipators. My God. I can't even sit down to lunch with a man any more and hold up my end of a decent conversation. I either get so bored or so goddamn preachy that if the son of a bitch had any sense, he'd break his chair over my head”
Quote Analysis
In this quote from J.D. Salinger's novel, "Franny and Zooey," the narrator expresses feelings of frustration and disillusionment with the world around him. The narrator, who is feeling disconnected and alienated from society, blames two influential figures in his life for his current state - likely his parents or mentors. He describes himself and his sister Franny as "freaks," indicating a sense of being different or misunderstood. The narrator's bitterness and anger are evident as he contemplates the idea of harming those he holds responsible for his current predicament. This quote highlights the theme of disillusionment and the struggle to find meaning and connection in a world that seems overwhelming and alienating.
Modern Relevance of J.D. Salinger's Quote
In this quote from J.D. Salinger's novel, the protagonist expresses frustration with societal norms and expectations that have led to feelings of alienation and disconnection. This sentiment is still highly relevant in today's society, where individuals often struggle to find authenticity and connection in a world that can feel overwhelming and superficial. The pressure to conform to certain standards can lead to feelings of isolation and a lack of genuine connection with others.
J.D. Salinger, Franny and Zooey
In this quote from J.D. Salinger's novel "Franny and Zooey," the protagonist expresses their frustration at the influence of certain individuals in their life. They feel like they have been negatively impacted by these people to the point where they can no longer hold a conversation without feeling bored or preachy.
Reflection Questions:
As we think about the character's frustration with the influence of these "great teachers" in their life, it raises some important questions for self-reflection:
- What influences or people in your life have had a significant impact on shaping your beliefs and behaviors?
- How have these influences helped or hindered your ability to engage in meaningful conversations with others?
- In what ways can you take ownership of your own thoughts and opinions, rather than relying solely on external sources for guidance?
- How might you navigate the balance between being open to new ideas and insights while also staying true to your own values and beliefs?
- Have there been moments where you have felt similarly frustrated or overwhelmed by outside influences on your thoughts and behaviors? How did you handle those situations?
Similar quotes
“Put down the Technicolor ones. No freaking way.""But blue's my favorite color," I say, batting my eyelashes at him."Put them down.”
“Two years ago, I was a twenty-nine year old secretary. Now I am a thirty-one year old writer. I get paid very well to sit around in my pajamas and type on my ridiculously fancy iMac, unless I'd rather take a nap. Feel free to hate me -- I certainly would.”
“Sure. What's the worst that could happen." Twenty minutes later, we had our answer. "I can't frecking believe this."I cringed. "I'm so sorry.""I'm bald!" Giguhl continued. "I look like a freak.""It's not that bad," I said. But it was. Oh, my lord was it bad. I'd never seen an uglier cat in my entire life.”
“It really is the year 2007. Which means I must be...Oh my God. I'm twenty-eight.I'm old.”
“I'm not going to change the way I look or the way I feel to conform to anything. I've always been a freak. So I've been a freak all my life and I have to live with that, you know. I'm one of those people.”