Chapter 4

Once Ackley leaves, Holden turns his attention to Stradlater. Holden would rather spend time with Stradlater than with Ackley. As Stradlater goes to the bathroom to shave, Holden follows him there. Stradlater tells Holden that he is preparing for a date with Jane Gallagher, Holden’s ex-neighbor. Holden is consumed by memories of Jane. He fondly recalls having played checkers with her. He then tells Stradlater that she had a rather unhappy childhood with her stepfather, who roamed around the house naked. Stradlater does not appear interested in these details. Holden mentions several times that he intends to go downstairs and say hello to Jane, but he eventually does no such thing. In fact, Holden appears scared and nervous about running into her; he seems worried that she may have changed since the last time they’d met.

Holden is unhappy about Stradlater going out with Jane. Meanwhile, Stradlater asks Holden to write an essay for him. Holden continues to reminisce about Jane and wonders if she still keeps all her kings at the back while playing checkers. Holden’s memories of Jane and his hesitation to meet her show that Jane has a special place in Holden’s heart. Soon Stradlater leaves, and Ackley returns.