Hinton's book hones in on the reality of socio-economic status, that was alive in '67 and continues to be relevant today (and indefinitely). The book focuses on the two gangs, the Socs and the Greasers. These two gangs represent opposite ends of the socio-economic spectrum, with the Socs representing the wealthy west side kids and the Greasers representing extreme hardship.
It is evident, when examining the Greasers as individuals, what is "cool"/accepted and what is not. Ponyboy's interest in books and movies sets him apart from his brothers, Darry and Sodapop. Because the brothers lost both their parents to a crash, they all are sort of forced to grow-up and do what they can to make ends meet and survive. Darry, the oldest of the brothers at the age of 20, works two jobs to keep everyone together. Sodapop is 16 years old and has dropped out of school and is working at a gas station.
As you can see, Ponyboy (who is 14 years old) is sort of an outsider (hmmm...) in comparison to his brothers. This book not only shows the struggles of trying to fit in within one's family but also fitting in with society and the world around you. Isn't this exploration of oneself and fitting in in the world what teen life consists of, to a large degree?
Totally, and it is reminiscent of another one of Hinton's books: 'That was Then, This is Now' (Sorry, I don't know how to underline here) which is also about fitting in, as well as growing up and seeing how relationships, and people, can change. Who is cool at one point is not as cool later, and you see peoples' lives change as result of their choices. I wonder if this book is still read as much as 'The Outisiders' is...
ReplyDeleteI remember reading this book in middle school. Makes me want to read it again. I bet if I do, I probably will be thinking more in a teacher's point of view but still, still thinking how this can relate to me as well?
ReplyDeleteI like the way how Hinton wrote this book, through the views of Greasers. Usually, when we read books, they are usually through people who are the goodies. Knowing how the Greasers live, the troubles they go through, and suffering really gives us a strong feeling of how hard life was. Even now, many youths can relate to them as well. Not just the popular and popular ones but everyone can relate. The sense of not belonging and wanting to belonging.