What did Ackley do with his toenails in Holden's room?

• A. He eats Holden's snacks.
• B. He borrows Holden's clothes without asking.
• C. He makes loud noise in the room while Holden sleeps.
• D. Ackley cuts his toenails and leaves the clippings all over the floor.

Answer: (D)

Notice how a small, concrete action in a scene reveals character and mood. In Holden’s room, Ackley cuts his toenails and leaves the clippings all over the floor. That moment isn’t just about nails; it shows Ackley’s casual disregard for hygiene and for Holden’s space, which fuels Holden’s growing sense of discomfort and disgust with his surroundings. It also contrasts with Holden’s desire for quiet and order, highlighting the tension between them. The toenail-clipping detail is the key point here because it’s a vivid, specific image the narrative uses to establish both characters’ habits and the uneasy atmosphere of the room.