Holden Caulfield's sexuality is a notable theme in The Catcher in the Rye

Holden Caulfield struggles with sexuality for the duration of the novel. He only shows interest for girls whom he has known for a long time, and has difficulty expressing his sexual interests. In reality, Holden is clueless about sex. He brags to readers about being sexy and calls himself a "sex maniac", yet there are no sex scenes. He also admits to finding sex confusing, which is proven by his conversations and body language with Sally Hayes. Readers can tell that Holden is pretending to know about sex and that he is insecure in his own sexuality.^[1] A reason Holden struggles with sex is that he cannot distinguish it from love and compatibility. He still has a crush on Jane Gallagher because they have known each other for so long and so well. Because of their preexisting relationship, Holden feels comfortable thinking about her in an intimate way. When he identifies someone as a phony, they also become unattractive and unappealing.

[P1] Holden Caulfield is only attracted to a girl if he knows her well. [P2] Holden Caulfield has no sexual experience. [P3] Holden Caulfield is insecure about his sexuality. [P4] Holden Caulfield can't separate love and sex. [P5] Therefore, the theme of The Catcher in the Rye is sexuality.