Novel: The Outsiders

Introduction
"The Outsiders" is a coming-of-age novel written by S. E. Hinton and released in 1967. This novel tells the story of 2 rival gangs in Tulsa, Oklahoma-- the Socs (short for Socials), representing the upper-class white teens, and the Greasers, who are from the working-class and generally have long, oily hair. The novel is told by a 14-year-old boy named Ponyboy Curtis, who is a member of the Greasers. Hinton was just 15 when she began composing the novel and 17 when it was released. The story reviews themes such as social class divisions, loyalty, relationship, and teen violence.

Ponyboy's Life and Family
Ponyboy Curtis is a delicate and peaceful teenager who deals with his 2 older bros, Sodapop and Darry, considering that their parents died in an automobile mishap. Ponyboy, regardless of being a Greaser, is an ambitious author and likes reading literature. This sets him apart from the rest of the gang, who are more thinking about combating and causing trouble. Darry, the oldest bro, is stringent with Ponyboy, trying to keep him away from problem. Sodapop, on the other hand, is more fun-loving and cares deeply about his brothers.

The Rival Gangs: Greasers and Socs
The main conflict in "The Outsiders" is between the 2 competing gangs-- Greasers and Socs. The Greasers are understood for their long hair, leather jackets, and typically come from lower-income families. The Socs, on the other hand, are preppy, conceited, and originate from wealthy families. The tension in between the two groups typically leads to violence and fights.

Johnny Kills Bob
One night, Ponyboy and his friend Johnny are strolling in a regional park when a group of Socs approach them. The Socs start threatening them and to avoid the circumstance from intensifying, Ponyboy informs Johnny to run. Nevertheless, the Socs corner Johnny and start beating him. When they attempt to drown Ponyboy in a water fountain, Johnny steps in and fatally stabs among the Socs called Bob.

On the Run
Knowing they will be in problem for Bob's death, Ponyboy and Johnny, with the aid of fellow Greaser Dally, flee to an abandoned church. They hide there for a number of days, throughout which they cut their hair and camouflage themselves. Dally shows up to check on them, exposing that the cops are searching for them and that tensions in between the Socs and Greasers have actually increased. Nevertheless, their hideout does not remain safe for long.

The Church Fire
When Ponyboy, Johnny, and Dally discover that the deserted church they have actually been hiding in is on fire, they learn that a group of kids had actually been playing within and are now trapped. They rescue the children but Johnny gets seriously injured in the process. Dally, fearing that Johnny's injuries might be fatal, takes Ponyboy back to their area while Johnny is taken to the medical facility.

Rumbling
As the stress between the Greasers and Socs escalate, they choose to have a "rumble" or a massive fight to settle their distinctions. The Greasers eventually win the rumble, however the success is bittersweet; Dally, distraught over Johnny's getting worse condition, takes part in a store burglary and is chased by the authorities. As an outcome, Dally is shot and eliminated by the authorities.

Resolution and Themes
Johnny ultimately passes away from his injuries, and Ponyboy is enabled to stick with his bros as the court rules that they are capable of looking after him. Throughout the course of the story, Ponyboy grows and learns about the importance of commitment, relationship, and household. The unique concludes with a reflection on how social departments, particularly based upon wealth and social class, just perpetuate violence and misconception. The story likewise stresses the importance of finding one's identity and selecting the right course in life, as shown by the choices made by the novel's various characters.