Adolescence In The Outsiders

The book 'The Outsiders' written by S.Hinton shows many events that relate to the theme adolescence. The author bases the story on a teenage Greaser who sees the world against him. Adolescence is a part of growing up in which a child develops into an adult. During this time a child may begin to think one is responsible and doing the right thing. This essay analyzes how teenage Greasers and Socials differentiate from each other during this period.

Early in the book, Ponyboy shows dislike towards his older guardian Darry. He shows this when Sherry asks about his family and mentions Darry, "He's not like Sodapop at all and he sure ain't like me. He's hard as a rock and about as human. He's got eyes exactly like frozen ice. He thinks I'm a pain in the neck. He likes Soda--- everybody likes Soda--- but he can't stand me. I bet he wishes he could stick me in a home somewhere, and he'd do it, too, if Soda'd let him." Ponyboy reveals his lack in communication and cannot contemplate why Darry is strict and criticizing for reasons beyond his understanding. In contrast, Bob and his parents relationship are the complete opposite. Bob receives whatever he desires and has no set boundaries. Bob sees this as a good thing growing up, but this ends Bobs short life after his parents negligence.

Socs and Greasers each represent their identity differently. Socs such as Bob displays his wealth by his 'tuff' mustang, and power by the jewelry he carries with him, rings. Bob uses this to his advantage in a fight as a silent weapon. Whereas Greasers don't have wealth, so they use cheaper alternatives, they let their hair grow long, and style it with grease, thus taking pride in what they have. Greasers such as two-bit display their power by possessing a switch blade which was stolen. Ponyboy gets jumped in the beginning of the book and a Soc asks if he wants a haircut, threatening to take away his few possessions which identify him as a