Later, after he has had time to think about it, what does Holden think about Antolini?

• A. He forgets about Antolini.
• B. He thinks Antolini is completely wrong.
• C. He decides to cut ties with Antolini.
• D. He realizes his judgment was a little off.

Answer: (D)

Holden’s moment of reflection shows him re-evaluating his early read on Antolini. He’s faced with time to think about what Antolini said and did, and he comes to see that the concern behind Antolini’s care was genuine. The advice and the hug he felt as intrusive at first start to make more sense in light of the adult perspective Antolini offers—one that cares about him and about growing up, not just about avoiding trouble. That leads Holden to realize his judgment was a little off: he overreacted in the moment and misread Antolini’s intentions, rather than thinking Antolini was completely wrong or that he should cut ties.