During the carrousel scene, Holden realizes that not only can he no longer hang onto his childhood, and that he cannot do anything to protect a child from losing their innocence. While approaching the carrousel, Holden portrays a very negative attitude, while Phoebe is overwhelmed with excitement. Holden decides that instead of participating in this childhood activity, he would abstain to sit and watch his younger sister live her childhood, “I went over and sat down on this bench, and she went and got on the carrousel” (Salinger 211). Holden realizes that it is no longer his duty to hold onto his childhood, as certain activities are childish, and not meant to be pursued by older adolescents. After continuously trying to protect Phoebe and
