The Catcher in the Rye - Chapters 20&21 Questions (pgs 149166)

Chapter 20
1. After Valencia sings, what does Holden ask the headwaiter to do?
2. What does Holden make sure NOT to do while he is drunk at the bar? Why does he not
want to do this?
3. When Holden leaves the Wicker Bar, what is Holden pretending to do again?
4. Who does Holden decide to call while he is drunk? How does the phone call turn out?
5. How old does Holden say he is to the piano player? What advice does he have for
Holden?
6. How old does Holden say he is to the hat check girl? What excuse does she give to
Holden for not going on a date with him?
7. What terrible thing happens to Holden as he arrives at the park? How does he react to
this?
8. What kinds of people does Holden imagine coming to his funeral?
9. Why doesnt Holden like the idea of visiting Allie at his grave?
10. Where does Holden decide to go at the end of the chapter? What worries him about
his decision?

Chapter 21
1. What does Holden mean when he says he got the best break hes had in years?
2. How does Holden fool the elevator boy?
3. Why isnt Phoebe in her own room? What part is she going to play in the Christmas
Pageant?
4. What excuse does Holden give as to why he is home early? How does Phoebe figure
out Holden was actually expelled from Pencey?
5. How does Phoebe take the news of Holdens expulsion? What does she say their dad
will do?
6. What does Holden call Phoebe at the end of the chapter to try and cheer her up? Why
does he call her this?