The Outsiders, S.E. Hinton - Key Notes & Plot Elements

Chapter 1 mid-1960s Tulsa, Oklahoma, USA More rural (country) lifestyle than urban (city) The author, S.E. Hinton, tells the story through the eyes of Ponyboy Curtis (the protagonist) from the first person point of view - “I” Protagonists (main characters): The Greasers gang living on the poorer East-side of town; Ponyboy Curtis supported by Sodapop, Darry, Dally, Johnny, Two-Bit Matthews, Steve Randall, Tim Shepard’s Gang Antagonists (opposing characters): The Socials gang living on the richer West-side of town, Sherri/Cherry Valance, Marcia, Bob, Randy The Socials jumping Ponyboy (Greaser) upon leaving the movie theatre - instant conflict between the gangs (inciting conflict of story) Society misconception problem: Greasers are bad, Socials are good You begin to feel Ponyboy's animosity, resentment towards the imbalance in their town; Socials are easily forgiven (see quote below) whereas Greasers are always blamed. Ponyboy feels "marked" but has come to accept this reality because he feels it will never change. Just like Seedfolks dealt with misconceptions/prejudices, so too here, but in this case, it's not based on ethnicity but on living in either the poor or rich side of town. Pg.3 misconception quote: “the Socs...get editorials in the paper for being a public disgrace one day and an asset to society the next.” - Ponyboy is pointing out that this is the injustice they deal with Pg.3 Darry character (take on father figure, family responsibilities, has become overly protective & strict since parents passed): “Darry thinks his life is enough without inspecting other people’s”. Pg.8 Darry character “eyes that can be gentle and sympathetic one moment and blazing with anger the next” (eyes are window to a person’s soul) Pg.18 Darry character - according to Ponyboy “Darry doesn’t love anyone or anything...I didn’t hardly think of him as being human” He’s cold, unaffectionate Pg.10 Two-Bit Matthews character (the clown/joker of the Greasers) “You couldn’t shut up that guy; he always had to get his two-bits worth in.” “Everything he said was so irresistibly funny that he just had to let the police in on it” (ironic!) Pg.10 Dallas (Dally) Winston character supporting quote: “eyes...cold with a hatred of the whole world” - reckless, defiant, rebels against rules and regulations, doesn’t like to be boxed-in; he’s the ultimate “bad boy” that even Cherry Valance (a Socialite) would easily fall in love with. Pg.11 Johnny Cade character supporting quote: “If you can picture a little dark puppy that has been kicked too many times and is lost in a crowd of strangers, you’ll have Johnny.” - anxious, vulnerable, nervous, neglected, needs love and support - he’s the gang’s “pet” but very “high strung” - often threatened and abused and, as a result, has become very frustrated; in fact he says “there’s gotta be someplace without Greasers or Socs, with just plain people”. Pg.12 “Tough is the same as rough; tuff means cool, sharp...both are compliments.” (gives reader idea of the era - tuff is associated with lit, swag, fly Pg.13 Sodapop character - Ponyboy says “Soda always takes up for me” - good natured, caring, protective, loyal otherwise is simply known being “movie star handsome” and a school “drop-out” (unintelligent) Pg.15 Ponyboy having a little “identity crisis” - see paragraph about him reading “Great Expectations” & Biology class: you wouldn’t think a switch-blade carrying hood would be in advanced high school class (this is ironic) - friendly, nice, thoughtful, smart, isn’t really a “hood” Chapter 2 While chapter 1 was laying out the cast of characters and Greasers vs Socials, chapter 2 is a casual coming together of these rivals in a state of concern and curiosity. Ponyboy and Cherry as neutral representatives of each world. Cherry Valance pointing out to Ponyboy Curtis that he has essentially lost his childhood innocence because he's been exposed to too many negative things: violence, crime, arrests, family neglect and has had to grow up pretty fast. Cherry Valance also points out that while she may live in the wealthy side of town, materialism doesn't necessarily protect them from all problems (the misconception is that rich people have it made). Ponyboy trying to point out to Cherry that the Greasers are a loyal family and have each others backs no matter what. He is tired of being "marked" as a hood. Pg.26 key quote Greasers vs Socials conflict explanation Ponyboy says: “we’re young and innocent”. Cherry replies: “...not innocent. You’ve seen too much to be innocent.” Johnny says: “You take up for your buddies, no matter what they do….if you don’t….it’s a pack...distrustful, bickering like the Socs” Greasers: loyal, family, caring, trust, “sticking together” Socials: complete opposite End of chapter 2 (pg36), we realize that Ponyboy is a thoughtful, insightful, introspective, intelligent character - he comes to realize that whether you’re on the rich or poor side of town, EVERYONE has problems to deal with - materialism/wealth doesn’t necessarily make you better off. Events of this chapter that contribute to the story's "rising action" are as follows: Greasers (Ponyboy, Johnny, Dally, Two-Bit) indirectly “pick up” Socials girlfriends (Cherry & Marcia) at drive-in; this comes to the attention of Socials, adds more fuel to the fire, and now bent on revenge Greaser Ponyboy & Social Cherry have become “confidants” sharing what it’s like to live on either side of town and to be part of a gang. Pg.38 Socials being defined by money, indifference, no life purpose, no structure, never satisfied, “always behind a wall of aloofness” (aloof means cool, distant, not friendly or forthcoming, hiding). Whereas, the Greasers are defined as more emotional, authentic, true to self, not pretending to be someone else. Pg.40-41 Both Ponyboy and Cherry come to realize that while they are separated by different gangs and social classes, they “share the same sunset” - making them both not so different. Chapters 3-4: Pg.43 “It ain’t fair! ...Things were rough all over the East side” really describes what each Greaser is struggling and dealing with on the East side (re-read) Ponyboy returns home very late after falling asleep at the lot; extremely worried about his brother’s whereabouts, Darry (like a very strict father) becomes extremely angered upon seeing Ponyboy and slaps him causing Ponyboy to run away from home with Johnny who remained at lot since he’s not wanted home. Darry expects more from Ponyboy (maybe he sees potential in him, a better future for him?) After running away from home, Ponyboy and Johnny are both attacked by the Socials seeking revenge for “picking-up” their girlfriends; on the verge of being drowned in the fountain, Johnny stabs & kills Bob (the Soc) in self-defence. Under the guidance of Dallas (Dally) Winston, Ponyboy & Johnny slip away to an abandoned church in the country and hide out to avoid murder charges. Eventually they get word from home in a letter (from Sodapop) that their family is worried. Ponyboy notes that things have happened way too fast; their lives have drastically changed overnight and he’s unable to process this. In their adolescent quest to search for and establish an identity, both Ponyboy & Johnny have gotten themselves into a criminal situation simply because they’re labelled by their town as “Greasers” (hoods). Pg.59 clearly shows Dallas’ character (from the point of view of Ponyboy) who points out he demonstrates a “savage defiance of the world...the fight for self-preservation had hardened him beyond caring.” This quote shows that Dallas is stubborn, hates authority and takes great pride in breaking rules, and being a rebel, angry with the world around him. It’s ironic that Johnny (anxious, neglected, insecure) idolizes “hero-worships” Dallas because he’s cool and “gallant” (noble, brave, knight-like) pg.76 Just as Johnny idolizes Dallas, so too is Cherry Valance charmed by him when she randomly tells (a very surprised) Ponyboy "I could fall in love with Dallas Winston...I hope I never see him again or I will". Both have an odd fascination with this rebel, bad-boy. Chapters 5-6: S.E. Hinton’s use of the word “gold” throughout the novel - it comes to symbolize goodness, purity, and innocence. Ponyboy says “my mother was golden”, “a ray of gold touched the hills”, and “nothing gold can stay” in the Robert Frost poem shared with Johnny. The author is telling us that in life, things are short-lived and must be appreciated while you have them. Your youth, your innocence, your close friendships, your good-heartedness, your sense of wonder, your creativity, your family - ALL need to be valued before they’re gone. ALL these things are considered to be GOLD (or treasured). A key theme. In chapter 6, we have Dally meeting up with Ponyboy & Johnny in the abandoned church hideout. They learn that Cherry Valance will take their side should they need to plead self-defence in Bob’s murder; she will also provide them with information about the upcoming rumble. Ponyboy notes “it was hard to believe a Soc would help us, even a Soc that dug sunsets” pg.86 - this quote speaks to the “stereotyping” theme of The Outsiders (generalized belief or assumption about a group of people). Cherry is not just a Soc; there is more to her than that. Church catches fire while they step out for food and are unaware a school group is picnicking there; in an earlier chapter, Ponyboy wonders what it would be like "inside a burning ember"; they decide to save the children that ran inside to play; Ponyboy passes out from his back nearly having caught fire; Johnny is also injured from falling timbers - all 3 end up in the hospital surrounded by the Greasers; Darry and Ponyboy make up and we learn that Darry is very hard on Ponyboy simply because he wants the best for him and cares too much and is just overly protective. “Next time I want a broad I’ll pick up my own kind” pg.85 - this speaks to the theme of “conformity” - teenagers feeling pressured to change their behaviour and mindset only to “fit in” with a group. Key theme. I think Robert Frost’s poem Nothing Gold Can Stay compares nature to life. Everything in nature is ephemeral, that is, short-lived and fleeting. At first it’s new, fresh, green, ready to grow and ripen. With the passing of time it will wither, age, and die. So too, is the “golden” youth and innocence of these boys – it will pass. I feel the poem is encouraging them to appreciate this special time of their lives and plan for a promising, positive future. Instead, they face social division, stereotyping, and labelling as Greaser or Social. They are consumed with protecting themselves with violent turf wars which have resulted in senseless murder. I don’t think this is what the typical adolescent should be dealing with. They should be focused on learning and developing into a responsible, mature adult that makes a valuable contribution to society. Ponyboy gives me the impression that he has much potential because he is sensitive, thoughtful, and overall “good” – not the typical gang member. He has the potential of becoming “golden” like his mom. I think Johnny, Dallas, and the Socials have reached a point of no return and have destroyed their youth and innocence. Chapters 7-8: In chapters 7 and 8, Ponyboy connects with Randy and Cherry to attempt to bridge some gaps between their rival worlds; here we see a good-hearted Ponyboy. Randy is stricken by grief and anger over Bob's death. He has no interest in the rumble. He's had some kind of awakening. Socialites were often referred to as being impersonal, indifferent, emotionless, and arrogant - now, Ponyboy is seeing a different side to him as Randy comes to realize that this rivalry serves no purpose. Peoples' perception of the Greasers and Socials will remain the same. In the end, both Randy and Ponyboy come to see and appreciate one another as just teenagers, unique individuals both dealing with a tough reality. Cherry shows that she is a just a follower and impressionable and easily charmed. Although she sees goodness, kindness, and sensitivity in Ponyboy, she remains in her own world, appreciating the sunset there, while Ponyboy takes it in from his side. She will not go visit Johnny in the hospital. She's pleading with Ponyboy trying to help him and show him that she's unlike the others. Sometimes Cherry seems to blur the lines as to which side she's really on. Either way, Ponyboy does his best to end both conversations with Randy and Cherry on a positive, friendly note. He is probably the only one of his gang that could do this, which speaks to the type of person he is. These two chapters should help you better complete your character analysis table for these characters. Ponyboy is thoughtful; he doesn’t look at everyone as either a Greaser or Social - instead, he looks at everyone as a unique “individual”. Look at his conversation with Randy (who sees no point to a rumble): "Greaser" didn't have anything to do with it. My buddy over there wouldn't have done it. Maybe you would have done the same thing, maybe a friend of yours wouldn't have. It's the individual. Ponyboy is idealistic - someone who has values, principles, and a purpose; wants a more “ideal” world to live in not based on i.e. materialism, superficiality, stereotyping “We’ll forget it if you win, or if you don’t. Greasers will still be greasers and Socs will be be Socs” - Randy has also come to the conclusion that their town has failed to stop the ongoing stereotyping and as a result, fighting serves no purpose; Randy, however, isn’t as insightful as Ponyboy that sees everyone as an “individual” free to make his/her own choices More stereotyping: “...and from what I’ve heard, a lot of Socs are just cold-blooded mean-but people usually go by looks.” Shows you how people prejudge. Ponyboy’s conversation also with Cherry about sharing the same sunset, shows common ground between Greasers & Socials - both Ponyboy & Cherry hope for a better future for all everyone from either side. Ponyboy “conforms” and is “loyal” to his fellow Greasers - he doesn’t really believe in fighting (but participates in the rumble even though he doesn’t feel well) but it shows us how an individual gives themselves up to fulfill the goals of the group. Final Chapters: The Greasers really aren’t true delinquents like Tim Sheperd’s crew; they’re just loyal to one another (family). Ponyboy knows he has a brighter future ahead of him because of Darry’s overprotectiveness. Ponyboy doesn’t have the courage to tell Tim Sheperd that’s he’s actually not proud about Bob’s murder. Dally mistakenly thinks that their gang’s rumble victory will please Johnny (“useless, fighting’s no good”) - all Dallas has in his life is gang allegiance, conflict, and violence; becoming “hard” like him would protect Ponyboy and his conscience - but would also kill all his innocence, thoughtfulness, and goodheartedness. Johnny dies and Dallas is grief-stricken and becomes self-destructive. Climax (peak of story) Greasers beat Socs in rumble followed by Johnny’s death Falling Action & Conflict Resolution: Distraught and angered over Johnny’s death, Dallas holds up a convenience store with a fake gun and ends up getting himself killed by the police - his final rebellion against the world, that he feels, has let him down Ponyboy is in denial over Bob’s death - he believes he’s responsible. Randy (not the typical Soc) comes to see him, showing compassion and empathy, concerned Ponyboy could be split from brothers. Randy & Cherry testify in court that Johnny killed Bob in self-defence; the judge acquits Ponyboy and sends him home with his brothers. Ponyboy remains depressed, refuses to accept reality, continues to fight with overprotective, strict Darry. Sodapop has had enough and finally demands peace and unity in their family. Ponyboy and Darry decide to move forward trying to understand each other better. Ponyboy’s English teacher will pass him with an essay based on his own personal experiences - he thinks about everything that has just happened to him over these past weeks Some other Socials confront Ponyboy and accuse him of killing Bob; Ponyboy, feeling “hardened”, indifferent and cold breaks soda bottle and threatens them to back off. He shows his gentle and sensitive nature when he (ironically) picks up broken glass off ground. Ponyboy finds Johnny’s letter encouraging him to “stay gold” because he still has a lot to live for. Ponyboy decides to write about his Greaser experience so others aren’t quick to judge them (where they live or who they hang out with), but instead, see them as “individuals” (capable of doing good) not “outsiders”. In short, we have seen that S.E Hinton has focused her story on the following themes: -”staying gold” appreciating what you have: youth, innocence -avoiding stereotyping, prejudices, misconceptions, assumptions -conformity; fulfilling the goals of a group vs being an individual -loyalty & love