Who Wrote Holden Caulfield? – Kerplunk (1991)
Introduction
"Who Wrote Holden Caulfield?" by Green Day is a punk rock song that references the character Holden Caulfield from J.D. Salinger’s The Catcher in the Rye. The song captures the spirit of rebellion and youthful disillusionment that is central to both the book and Green Day's early work.
Thematic Analysis
The song explores themes of alienation, rebellion, and youthful disillusionment. Much like Holden Caulfield, the song reflects the frustration with societal norms and the quest for individual identity. Green Day uses Holden as a symbol of the outsider, questioning the role of authenticity in a world that often feels phony.
Conclusion
"Who Wrote Holden Caulfield?" captures the angst and disillusionment that resonates deeply with listeners, particularly in adolescence. It connects punk rock to literary themes, creating a song that feels both rebellious and introspective.