Why does Holden want to talk to Phoebe?

Holden feels most comfortable talking to his younger sister, Phoebe, because he feels like she is the only person who genuinely understands him and sincerely cares about his well-being. As a neurotic, hypercritical adolescent struggling to transition into adulthood, Holden feels more comfortable talking to innocent children like Phoebe. Unlike competitive, selfish adults, who are focused on climbing the social ladder and attaining financial stability, Phoebe is a straightforward, honest person, who reminds Holden of his childhood self. Out of all the characters Holden interacts with throughout the novel, he feels most comfortable being around Phoebe. He realizes that his sister will not judge him, and she offers her support at a critical moment in Holden's life. She is also closely linked to Allie, whose death had an enormous impact on Holden's mental stability. Overall, Holden desires to talk with Phoebe because he trusts her and she makes him feel comfortable. Surrounded by a world of "phonies," Holden views Phoebe as a sympathetic, honest person to talk to about his difficulties.

Although Holden easily finds flaws in just about every other person with whom he has contact, he idealizes his sister Phoebe, who is consistently described as a perfect model of childhood innocence. Walking around familiar areas of New York reminds Holden of fond memories from the past, and his desire to return to a setting of security and comfort is likely part of the reason he wants to make contact with his young sister. Since he has not come to terms with his brother Allie's death in a healthy manner, his quest to see Phoebe is also an attempt to reconnect with Allie, who shared physical characteristics with Phoebe such as her red hair, and who is likewise held as an ideal in Holden's mind. Holden values Phoebe's simple, unconditional acceptance, which is rare in a world full of phonies. Since no one else in his life loves him as extravagantly or unquestioningly as Phoebe, his relationship with her is important and easy, inspiring a strong desire to see and talk with her.