Holden's contempt against society is set upon his view
that people, in general, have a phony attitude, are hypocritical to their values, and
are willing to hurt others unfairly. This, he arguably thinks, is a result of the loss
of innocence that comes as a result of growing up. Hence, he is upset about growing up,
refuses to mature, and has a fascination for children. His admiration for them is also a
result of the fact that they are still at a stage in their lives where innocence
prevails. Hence, whatever unfair calamity happens to a child (like it happened to his
little brother Allie, who died) is a direct hit to Holden's esteem for innocence and his
pain when it is lost.
Phoebe, Holden's 10 year old sister,
is in a way more mature than Holden, understands his behavior, and has served as his
supporter and only true listener. He appreciates this greatly. In fact, he cherishes how
Phoebe, the epitome of the goodness and grace that comes with innocence has given him
the honor of being there for him. It is Phoebe that makes him want to become a "catcher
in the rye" for the protection of children who play innocently. He is never going to be
critical of her: She is the model individual under his pragmatic view of human
nature.
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