How is the theme of innocence vs. corruption visible in Holden's date with Sally Hayes?

• A. The date shows Holden's confidence in adult romance.
• B. The date proves Holden's rejection of innocence.
• C. The date exposes Holden's fear of intimacy and disillusionment with adult romance, highlighting his longing for innocence.
• D. The date demonstrates Sally's naivety.

Answer: (C)

The main idea being tested is how Holden’s struggle with innocence and corruption reveals itself in his dating life. On this date, Holden shows a deep discomfort with the idea of intimate adult romance and a fear of getting tied down, even as he longs for a simpler, more innocent connection. His impulsive talk of running away with Sally exposes his wish to retreat from the adult world’s complexities, underscoring his longing to preserve innocence rather than embrace mature romance. The other possibilities don’t fit as well because this moment isn’t about Holden gaining confidence in adult romance, nor about him rejecting innocence altogether; it’s about his fear of intimacy and disillusionment with adulthood paired with a yearning for the purity he associates with childhood.