Chapter 4- Vicky

Holden watches Stradlater shave and admires his physique and appearance. He compares the habits of Ackley, one that never brushes his teeth, and Stradlater, who looks good on the outside but fails to keep his razor clean. He decides that Ackley is a “slob in his personal habits” and Stradlater is a “secret slob”.
Ironically, Stradlater asks Holden, who is going through expulsion, to write him an English composition because he is on a date. Holden learns that Stradlater’s date is Jane Gallagher, a girl he knows and provokes a strong emotional response from him. Holden begins to pour out all the vivid memories he has of her, but Stradlater is indifferent and even says her name incorrectly. He dwells upon Jane dating Stradlater, a mature and sexually experienced boy from Pencey, and begins to be apprehensive as Stradlater leaves. Ackley barges in and Holden is thankful for his company because it takes his mind off Jane and Stradlater.

Techniques
In this chapter, Salinger uses a number of techniques to demonstrate the concept of individual and society through the voice of Holden. Such techniques include colloquial language, italics and digression. Holden’s voice is achieved through the use of colloquial language to establish a personal tone. His constant use of the expression “It really was” and “… and all” develops individuality as it is his own way of speaking. However, slang words in this chapter, such as “can” and “chewed the rag” signifies the teenage language spoken at the time. Italics are used to emphasize on particular words to express Holden’s tone: “I’m the one that’s flunking out of the goddamn place, and you’re asking me to write you a goddamn composition.” In that sentence, Holden speaks in an ironical tone and the italics “I’m” and “you’re” highlights the irony. Another technique used in this chapter that develops Holden’s voice is digression. This is used when Holden informs Stradlater about Jane, reciting all the memories he has of her. It helps the audience to get a better insight of Holden’s thoughts and adds authenticity to his voice.