Throughout the novel, Holden alludes to pivotal events in David Copperfield's life. For instance, he remarks on how David's aunt tried to make him a minister as Holden's mother constantly forces him to enroll in new schools and pursue higher education. This association reveals Holden's resentment toward societal pressures and expectations, which often overshadow his true desires.
Furthermore, Holden's fixation on David Copperfield suggests that he seeks refuge in literature, finding comfort in the stories of relatable characters. By evoking David Copperfield, Holden places himself in a literary tradition of alienation, loss, and the quest for identity. This allusion also highlights Holden's desire to connect with someone who comprehends his inner turmoil and struggles.