The Outsiders
by S.E. Hinton
Table of Contents
Significant Quotations
1. I lie to myself all the time, but I never believe me. (10)
Explanation: What Ponyboy most likely intends here is that he often primes himself up with statements such as that he is courageous, isn't afraid of the other, can fight as well as the other can, and so on. As happens with many people, these statements fail to have any appreciable impact on him.
Reflection: Ponyboy's statement is truer than he realizes. We lie to ourselves constantly, and we often believe that which we tell ourselves. Lying extends to stereotypes that we have of others, self-delusions, delusional thoughts of ourselves and the world that we live in, and so forth. Sometimes we realize that we are lying but continue nonetheless. Most of the time, these thoughts are unconscious, and we persist with our delusions.
2. If you have two friends in your lifetime, you're lucky. If you have one good friend, you're more than lucky. (51)
Explanation: Acquaintances are easy to come by; a true friend is a rare thing, indeed. A real friend is one who stays by us, is there for us regardless of circumstances, admonishes us for own good, and is true to us even in times of adversity. This type of friend is invaluable and should be treasured.
3. You get tough like me and you don't get hurt. You look out for yourself and nothin' can touch you... (179).
Explanation: The primary skill that can protect you in life is self-preservation. People are out to get you, and no person or thing can defend you as effectively as you can. In the end, relying on others or being afraid will not help you. You need self-sufficiency, Ponyboy tells us, in order to survive in this world, since you are all that you have.
4. It's okay. We aren't in the same class. Just don't forget that some of us watch the sunset too.
(138).
Explanation: Despite differences in background and socioeconomic status, we are born...
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