How does the author use the character of Paul Holden to emphasize the “Socs vs. Greasers”

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.