Question

What textual evidence in the book The Outsiders backs up the idea that the setting of a poor town has an effect on the overall story of The Outsiders?

Answer 1

One piece of textual evidence that supports the idea that the setting of a poor town has an effect on the story of The Outsiders is the constant mention of the socioeconomic disparities between the different social classes in the town. For example, when Ponyboy meets Cherry Valance, she explains to him how the town is divided into two rival gangs, the Socs and the Greasers, who come from opposite sides of town and have very different economic backgrounds. This division between the wealthy Socs and the working-class Greasers drives much of the conflict and tension in the novel.

Additionally, the Greasers' economic struggles are highlighted throughout the book, with references to their lack of money, poor living conditions, and difficult family situations. For example, Ponyboy and his brothers struggle to make ends meet after their parents die, and their poverty is a major source of stress and conflict in their lives. This economic hardship influences the choices and actions of the characters, shaping their relationships and ultimately driving the plot of the story.