Why was the story "Uncle Wiggily in Connecticut" written? What purpose does it serve?

J. D. Salinger wrote "Uncle Wiggily in Connecticut" to highlight complacency and futility in post–World War II America. In the story, Eloise and Mary Jane pass an afternoon lounging, gossiping, and drinking heavily while recounting past events from their college days. Mary Jane initially plans to stay a short while and then leave to deliver mail to her boss, but she instead passes out on Eloise's couch and ignores her responsibilities. Eloise insists on refilling drinks repeatedly and is desperate for companionship; she connects with and can be honest with Mary Jane in ways that she has never been with her husband. Eloise reveals that she feels desperation at being trapped in her marriage with Lew; that she is disturbed by her daughter, Ramona's, imaginary friends and social awkwardness; and that she is cruel to Grace, the family's maid.
From a casual glance, Eloise appears to have a perfect suburban lifestyle, but as she drinks and becomes more vocally honest, it is evident that she's deeply discontent. The story concludes with an altercation in which Eloise loses her temper at Ramona's connection to a new imaginary friend. Eloise realizes that, much like Ramona, she has been clinging to someone who doesn't exist: Walt Glass, a former love who has long been dead. This story demonstrates the phoniness that stems from seeking perfection and a false reality, and it shows the futility of living amidst constant distraction and entertainment, which is as relevant today as it was at the time of publishing in 1948.