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Essay On The Outsiders

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Examining “The Outsiders” by S.E. Hinton

Have you ever been 14 and feel like you didn’t fit in? Well, I’m working on the 14 part, but feeling like you fit in or belong is tough at any age. This is a realistic fictional novel told through the eyes of Ponyboy Curtis, a 14 year old boy living in Oklahoma during the 60’s. Even though “The Outsiders” by S.E. Hinton is not a new book, the themes of social class, loyalty and the power of choices make this story a classic with much to offer today’s youth. Throughout most of this story, there is a battle brewing between two groups of kids divides by money and social class. Ponyboy Curtis is a “greaser” from the East side. Readers experience this story through the eyes of this 14 year old member …show more content…

Some people will never know the meaning of that word. To Ponyboy, loyalty was taught as early as he could remember and was an important part of what held his family together. Because Ponyboy and his brothers were orphaned, loyalty saw their family through many hard times just knowing they were all each other had. Loyalty to their gang became a sense of pride for their social status. This loyalty let them own their situation. They didn’t have to be ashamed that they struggled to make it work. Ponyboy was loyal, but began to question the decisions of others and found it harder to agree and go along. Everyone is eventually defined or known by their choices. Ponyboy was realizing that the things he loved to do weren’t typical of someone in his gang. Inside, Ponyboy struggled with what was expected of him as a member of his gang and what he felt were the right choices for him. You see, Pony boy began to see that the choices made today, become the reality you live with tomorrow. Ponyboy saw hope for his future that was free of violence, fear, and unlimited by social class. As explained, “The Outsiders” by S.E. Hinton has a powerful set of messages that still relate to the teens of today. Through Ponyboy Curtis’ struggle with social class, loyalty, and his choices, the reader understands the importance of being true to oneself and realizing your real potential for the

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