The purpose of an automobile is to transport an individual to a desired place. The same holds true for a horse and carriage. However far-fetched it may seem, this is a perfect analogy for the comparison of Huck and Holden. Huck would represent the horse and carriage and Holden would represent the automobile. They both serve the same purpose (transportation), yet in different time periods. Huck and Holden go through the same basic experiences and growth that is normal for most teenagers. Although Huck and Holden live in very different time periods, teenage 'coming of age' is a timeless concept that transcends all time periods and cultures. Holden and Huck both go through totally different experiences, yet incredibly alike to find/define themselves.
Time is a concept infinitely complex to the human mind. How much time has to expire for a certain time "period?" Is this just an arbitrary labeling? How does time affect society? What does any of this have to with Huck and Holden? Time is a key idea to establish Holden as a continuation of Huck.
Illustration of Jim and Huckleberry Finn, by EW Ke...
Traditional raft, from 1884 edition of Adventures ...
The Adventures of Huck Finn (1993 film)However, one must understand that teenage rebellion and growth has been around for a very long time. This is an idea that was established way before Huck, let alone Holden's time. Throughout different cultures, times, societies, etc...there is some sort of rite of passage that one must go through to become an "adult." The Jews have bar/bat mitzvahs. School is another rite of passage that currently seems to be the trend, along with receiving a Drivers license. The notion of Rebellion has always been present in teenagers as a way to question things that they before had assumed as true. Rebelliousness is one that helps teens find themselves as individuals, not products of their parents or society.
Both Huck and Holden have...