Final answer:
In 'Rocket Boys,' Homer Hickam establishes conflict between the protagonist and the mining town's expectations, representing a larger generational and ideological divide that drives the story's theme of pursuing one's dreams against all odds.
Step-by-step explanation:
In Rocket Boys, Homer Hickam sets up conflict between people and localities as central to the story's development. This conflict is not just between individuals but also reflects the larger community and its values. For instance, the protagonist's ambition to build rockets contrasts with the mining town's expectation that boys will follow in their fathers' footsteps and go into coal mining. The people of the town, including Homer's own father, represent the practical and traditional lifestyle of Coalwood, while Homer's interest in rockets suggests a break from this tradition and a reaching towards something new and unknown.
The central conflict between Homer and his father, and by extension the town, serves to illustrate a generational and ideological divide. This sets the stage for the inciting incident which propels Homer and his friends to pursue their rocket-building ambitions, in spite of community skepticism. This pursuit serves as the story's rising action, building tension as the Rocket Boys face various challenges in realizing their dream.
It is through this central conflict that the memoir's overarching theme is revealed. As the boys continue to work on their rockets, the narrative explores themes of determination, innovation versus tradition, and the pursuit of one's dreams, no matter the opposition.