Salinger has named his novel with the metaphoric title Catcher in the Rye to depict his hero

Holden Caulfield as a Jesus-like figure, who with his compassion, seeks to save humanity from its fate of phoniness. Holden has once again failed out of prep school, Salingers microcosm for society. Like Jesus, Holden is generous, revolted by human nature- especially its materialistic side- and desirous of being a savior. When interacting with others, Holden shows true generosity, always twined with compassion. Holden is revolted by societys materialistic and artificial side. Holden sees himself as a savior like the Jesus of the Old Testament whom he admires.