The three most important symbols in The Catcher in the Rye are (In order from importance) the phone booth, the ducks leaving the pond, and Holdon's red hunting hat. These three symbols, or motifs, if you will, make a powerful statement throughout the book providing the reader with strong character similarity and likeness to Holdon's journey to adulthood. While reading the novel it clearly illustrates the importance of these symbols and how Holdon uses the symbols to try to work his way around the hard part of growing up. When connecting with each individual symbol, Holdon's personality changes. Whether its loneliness, confusion, or bravery, they all play a part in contributing to Holdon's center being.