"Some literary types subscribe to the notion that being a writer like Salinger entitles a person to remain free of the standards that might apply to mere mortals"

This quote by Joyce Maynard recommends that some people in the literary world believe that being a successful author, such as J.D. Salinger, gives an individual the right to be exempt from the very same requirements that apply to other people. This could mean that these people think that Salinger, and other authors like him, should not be held to the same expectations as everybody else. They might think that since of his success, Salinger must be allowed to do whatever he desires without repercussion. This could be interpreted as a form of elitism, where specific individuals are given unique benefits due to the fact that of their status. It might also be seen as a way of honoring Salinger's achievements and enabling him to live his life as he chooses.