“The Outsiders” by S.E. Hinton is a classic novel that explores the conflicts between two rival groups, the Socs (short for Socials) and the Greasers, set in 1960s Oklahoma.
Cherry Valance and Ponyboy Curtis are two characters from opposite sides of the social divide, representing the Socs and the Greasers, respectively. In the book, they offer different perspectives on the differences between the two groups.
Cherry, a Soc, is a sympathetic and insightful character. She recognizes that despite the apparent differences in social status and wealth, both the Socs and the Greasers face their own struggles and difficulties. She acknowledges that the Socs often suffer from their own issues, such as family problems and a lack of emotional connection.
On the other hand, Ponyboy, a Greaser, experiences life from the perspective of an underprivileged and often misunderstood group. He describes the Greasers as a close-knit family, where they support and care for one another despite the tough circumstances they face.
The differing perspectives and descriptions provided by Cherry and Ponyboy contribute to the conflict between the two groups by highlighting the misunderstandings and prejudices that exist between them. These misunderstandings fuel the rivalry and tension, leading to a series of conflicts throughout the story.
As the novel unfolds, the characters begin to realize that they share more similarities than differences, and some, like Cherry, start to question the societal divisions and the impact of those divisions on individuals’ lives.