The author uses the character Paul Holden to emphasize the Socs vs Greasers by Paul being different because Paul Holden represents everything that Darry could have been. Paul is a privileged, athletic young man who had the opportunity to go to college, which is something Darry never had a chance to do once his parents died. Darry envies his former friend for being given the opportunity to play sports and attend college. Their face-off also underscores the class distinction between the two groups and differentiates Darry from the rest of the Greasers.