It might relate to Catcher in the Rye.
Holden defines phony as someone or something that is insincere, fake, or pretentious. He uses the term to describe people whom he perceives as dishonest or inauthentic.
he thinks phony is someone who discriminates against other or people who are untruthful.
phony
phony
he calls them a phony because he thinks they sre fake, in their personality and who they are as a person. but isn't Holden a phony himself for always lying.
Phony
Holden often uses the word "phony" to describe people whom he sees as inauthentic or hypocritical. He uses this term to criticize those who he perceives as being fake or pretentious in their behavior or speech.
phony
Phony can be used as an adjective or noun.Adjective--a phony personNoun--a bunch of phonies.
phony
Phony, false
p for phony