Discussion Topic
Johnny and Sodapop's interactions in The Outsiders
Summary:
Johnny and Sodapop's interactions in The Outsiders are characterized by mutual respect and care. Sodapop often acts as a supportive figure to Johnny, offering empathy and understanding. Their relationship highlights the solidarity and familial bonds within the group, showcasing how they rely on each other for emotional support in their challenging lives.
In The Outsiders, what does Sodapop tell Johnny after his first encounter with the Socs?
The Greasers and the Socs are two rival gangs in S E Hinton's novel, The Outsiders. The Greasers are from the "East" side of town and are, even in their own description, "hoods." The Socs are "the West-side rich kids," so called by Ponyboy, the narrator.
Ponyboy knows that the Socs beat up Greasers just for fun and is understandably nervous because he just wants to say out of trouble. The Socs do attack him but he is not so badly injured, especially as his brothers turn up and the Socs leave. Ponyboy recalls the first time Johnny was attacked by the Socs and how Johnny is now so scared, even "of his own shadow." Johnny is a tough kid so Ponyboy acknowledges how bad a beating he received from the Socs.
When Johnny is beaten by the Socs, Ponyboy and the others find Johnny "face down on the ground." They rally together to check if Johnny is alright. Soda calls Johnny "Johnnycake," and tells Johnny, "Don't talk. You're gonna be okay." Soda (Pop) consoles Johnny, and keeps telling him, "It's okay...They're gone now. It's okay." Soda understands and wants Johnny to feel safe again. His family do not care for him and Soda's words are comforting because it is the Greasers who are like family to Johnny.
Soda Pop is Ponyboy's elder brother and always looks out for Ponyboy.
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