How does the writer present Holdens relationships with other young people in this novel?

Throughout the story, Holden mentions Allie and his admirable personality. Salinger presents their relationship with a deep significance. Holden describes Allie as outgoing, creative and polite. From this the reader recognises that Allie was still a child when he died of Leukaemia. However, I believe the reason for Holden’s absolute admiration for Allie was due to his innocence and prevention of corruption. The fact that Allie died as a child, still naive and vulnerable, reassures Holden that his innocence will always be preserved.

Holden continues to meet characters through the story. For example, Holden forms a friendship with Robert Ackley at Pencey. Ackley has horrible hygiene, and does not hide it.   Although Salinger portrays Ackley through his repulsive traits, Holden has more respect for him than for his roommate, Stradlater.   Holden calls Stradlater a "secret slob". Stradlater is like many adults, because he tries to hide his imperfections, just what a ‘phony’ would do through Holden’s perspective.

Holden has a close relationship with his younger sister, Phoebe, although they have very different characteristics. She has a positive outlook on life, while Holden has pessimistic views on his future. Phoebe was his "ray of hope", and brought him true joy. To Holden, she is young, and hasn't become phony. He would do anything to protect her and other children away from adulthood, and preserve their childish innocence.

The significance of the title comes across throughout the novel, through the character Holden meets and his relationships with them. Salinger presents Holden’s relationships with the younger generation as being secure. Holden wants to capture every child’s innocence and protect it with care. Holden sees childhood as the ideal state of being. He wants every child to stay pure and uncorrupted. His relationship with his younger siblings and Jane are portrayed to be similar to a relationship of a mother and her child. It is delicate and supreme.  Throughout "The Catcher in the Rye", Holden Caulfield longs for intimacy with the younger generation, however the process of life often prevents this. Nevertheless, Holden learns to move forward and adapts to preserve his relationships, even if the person is a “phony”.