It is important to remember that in this novel, the gang
of Greasers of which Ponyboy is a part is actually a family. As Ponyboy and his brothers
are orphans, Darry, Sodapops and their friends become substitute "parents" for Ponyboy,
as he is the smallest and youngest of the gang. In addition, Darry takes his
responsibility as substitute father very seriously, because he wants Ponyboy to have the
kind of life that the death of their parents made it impossible for him to have. Thus it
is that the gang look out for Ponyboy and feel a real sense of responsibility for him.
Note, for example, how Darry responds to Ponyboy's request to be allowed to fight in the
rumble in Chapter 9:
"Well"--Darry gave in--"I guess you can. But be
careful and if you get in a jam, holler and I'll get you
out."
Darry does not treat
Sodapops in the same way, because he is able to "use his head," whereas clearly Darry
feels greater responsibility towards his younger brother.
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