Mr. Antolini’s genuine support of Holden reflects of his understanding of Holden’s unusual personality, making him the most important adult in The Catcher in the Rye. Mr. Antolini shows the first aspect of his support when he writes an caring and helpful note that makes a lasting impact on Holden. Mr. Antolini tells Holden, “I don’t want to scare you, but I can clearly see you dying nobly, one way or another, for some highly unworthy cause…If I write something down for you, will you read it carefully? And keep it?” (207). To this, Holden responds, “‘Yes. Sure.’ I did, too. I still have the paper he gave me” (207). This exchange reveals that Mr. Antolini’s words made a permanent impact on Holden, which demonstrates his comprehension of the unusual
