Which theme is reinforced by Holden's desire to protect Phoebe from phoniness?

• A. The inevitability of adulthood
• B. The superiority of cynicism
• C. The importance of wealth
• D. The longing for innocence and the wish to shield others from phoniness

Answer: (D)

The idea being tested is the longing for innocence and the wish to shield others from phoniness. Holden’s urge to protect Phoebe shows he cherishes genuine, uncomplicated childhood and sees the adult world as filled with insincerity. Phoebe embodies innocence, and Holden’s impulse to keep her away from “phoniness”—even imagining himself as a catcher who saves children from falling into cynicism—highlights his desire to preserve purity rather than corrupt it. This focus on safeguarding innocence explains why the theme is best captured by that choice. The other options miss the mark: the inevitability of adulthood suggests embracing change, cynicism would imply valuing distrust, and wealth is not a concern of Holden’s protective motive.