What does Holden suddenly decide to do to escape from Stradlater?

• A. He wants to leave Pencey immediately.
• B. He wants to be in a different place from Stradlater.
• C. He wants to talk to Ackley about Stradlater.
• D. He wants to study for exams.

Answer: (B)

Holden’s first move is about reclaiming space and control. When Stradlater’s presence and the tension between them becomes too much, Holden instinctively wants to put physical distance between them. The quickest way to do that is to be in a different place from Stradlater, signaling a need to withdraw and create a separation that calm his agitation. This moment shows Holden’s pattern: he often seeks escape through isolation or moving away rather than confronting the situation head-on.

Other possible actions wouldn’t address the immediate impulse to separate himself from Stradlater—leaving Pencey entirely, seeking out Ackley for help, or trying to study—so the option that focuses on being in a different place captures the moment of wanting to physically distance himself from Stradlater.