My brother is dead. Everyone says that he started it, but I don't believe it. He was my idol, my hero, and now he is just gone. Everyone keeps saying "I'm sorry," but I just want them to shut up. They might mean it, but I don't care. I just want to be alone right now. With Jerry. I love Jerry. He is the best chipmunk anyone could ever ask for. Anyways, I was going to tell Bob it was Taco time(Tuesday is my favorite day), and I was calling his name and got thirsty. So, I went to the water fountain in the park to get a drink, and I saw a body. I was creeped out but intrigued at the same time. I went in and looked at their face. It was- oh gosh- it was Bob. I will never forget his face and the pool of blood around his chest. Then I saw Randy, and David, and some of Bob's other buddies running towards me. "It was the greasers," they said. Aw dang. I don't want to eat my taco now.

I wish I had friends, then I could talk to people instead of myself or my grandkids. Really, I should try to meet more people instead of just wishing it would happen by itself. Then I mi- OH LORD, THOSE BOYS ARE FIGHTING. I need to stop them before things get out of hand. MY GOD, THEY GOT KNIVES! Forget stopping them. I'm out of here, I'll let the authorities handle this, but just before I left, the short guy stabbed the big guy. They need to be stopped! I'm calling the police, but first, I'll grab this penny I found on the ground.

I just saw a dead man. I was walking to the party that Dally was at, he never came home. He told me to wait for him there. I talked it out with him, and he said Johnny was the one who killed that guy. I was startled, “No! It couldn’t be. Johnny would never do that…” I had known Johnny the most in the group, since he was the closest to my age, and I just KNOW he woudnt do that. I realized that Ponyboy was gone too; was he a part of this too? I clenched my fist, ready to fight someone. My face turned red. Tears came from my eyes. I tried to hide it. Johnny wouldn’t. Would he..?

I was walking at night, listening to music, trying to clear my head. My mom and dad always fight, so they never notice when I leave the house. They never do, but I don't care. I like when they act like I'm not there, it's like, "you mind your business and I mind mine," and I enjoyed that. I liked walking at night because all my worries always went away. I would love to stroll all night long, but my parents would probably notice and get mad at me, so I usually stay out about an hour or so. As I was walking back to the house, I saw something out of the corner of my eye.

It was two boys who looked about the same age as me. They were on the playground, smoking, and I slowed my pace as I saw a car pull up. A blue Mustang. I know one when I see one, it's the Socs, and this isn't part of their territory. I wonder what they're doing here, especially at this time of night. While I was too busy spiraling in my thoughts, I snapped back into reality and saw one of the boys on the ground, and the other headfirst into the fountain. The Socs were drowning that boy, and I couldn't do anything; it was like I was glued to the pavement. I hid behind a nearby bush so they wouldn't see me, and as I peeked out from the bush, the boy who was on the floor stabbed a Soc.

I thought the other Socs would help the guy who was stabbed, but I was wrong... they ran away as soon as they saw him curled up on the floor. I got chills down my spine, the Socs weren't friends, they just hung out 'cause they had two things in common: money and the Greasers as their rivals. As I kept watching, the two boys ran away, and I continued to stroll to my house, walking a little faster than normal. Those boys looked a bit familiar, but who were they? As I questioned myself about what had just happened, I arrived at my house. Heading inside, I saw my mom and dad, they were still fighting, nothing new there.

"Mom, you wouldn't believe what I saw," I said. They were still fighting. "Mom. Hello?" I said, but they were still fighting. "Mom!" I say, basically screaming in her face.

"What do you want!? Can't you see I'm busy! My gosh, just leave me alone. You're irritating," she said to me, but I couldn't help myself, and I told her what had happened.

"Wow," she says, "Why couldn't that have been you instead? It would've made my life so much easier, fewer mouths to feed, and it would be less space to waste," as she finished, dad added on, "Yeah, it's not like you do anything for us," he says.

It was dead silent. No one said a word. Sure, my mom and dad didn't care about me, but they've never insulted me like that, ever. Ignoring me was one thing, but this is a whole other thing. I looked away from them, my eyes tearing up as I ran into my room crying, jumping onto my bed and shoving my head into my pillow and screaming. After a while of lying in bed crying, I finally fell asleep.

My days are always the same: wake up, coffee, work, go home, and work again. I always wanted to break this monotonous cycle and see or do something exciting for once! But who would've thought seeing the neighborhood greasers do something unspeakable? I saw a murder, or maybe I was hallucinating, maybe I’m dreaming? I pinched myself ever so lightly in case it would hurt, though that's what I’m trying to do. It hurt. What should I do? do I call the cops? Would the other greasers kill me if I tell others what I witnessed? I feel sick. I also feel like I’m about to throw up. I’m pretty sure I saw the whole thing so the Soc kid was acting up, but did the greaser have to kill the guy? It might have been self-defence, but I’m sure, without a doubt the kid's dead. I feel bad for the greasers that they have to endure the bullying and suck it up but killing someone is a bit far. I went back in my house, and put on the television and tried to distract myself.

Then, I saw a horrific scene.

A pool of dark red blood lay near a man. And not just any man. A Soc. I immediately hid and made sure nobody was watching me.

I peeked again and saw two young men. I could tell they were Greasers. My thoughts started racing.

"Did they kill a Soc?"

"Are they going to come after another Soc next?"

"Are they crazy?"

"Should I call the police?"

"What should I do?"

I closed my eyes and took a breath.

I slowly opened my eyes and examined the two boys and the dead Soc carefully.

I saw one of the Greasers holding a small pocket knife and the other throwing up. They both looked sick to the bone. I knew then it was a misunderstanding. But I was still a little shaken from the dead Soc. They had started discussing about if they should hide away for a while.

(Marilyn is not like the other kids. She doesn't belong in either the Socs or the Greasers groups. She wasn't rich but she also wasn't poor. She would watch the Socs and Greasers from a distance. She had hoped they would find peace with each other. She wants to help but she constantly gets rejected or forgotten.)

When I was walking past the park, I could hear some voices, and their voice seemed angry, mad in a way. I didn't think much of it and just kept walking to mind my own business, but that's when I saw Johnny and Ponyboy (Greasers) surrounded soc's. Both of their faces looked worried and tense. Before I could do anything, one of the socs grabbed Ponyboy and shoved him into the fountain. I could hear the splash and the sound of him struggling from that. I started to worry because the socs weren't letting him come up for air or anything. Then I realized they were trying to drown him, so I went to get help from someone. When I tried to get help, no one believed me, so I went back to do something. When I got there I saw Johnny holding a Blade then he.. stabs Bob (soc) after that Bob falls in the fountain while all of the other soc's run away In shock I run away from the scene to forget what had happen and swore not to say anything about it to anyone.

I was walking with my friend, who was talking to me about this kid who killed somebody. Curious, I asked

"Who did they kill?"

My friend says, "One of the Socs named Bob, I heard it was after the drive-in movie, and they got a little buzzed and jumped the two greasers by the fountain."

I was a little shocked that the older socs would jump the younger greasers, but I think that at this point, the older socs don't care as long as it's a greaser.

"That's terrible."

"yeah"

I think about as we walk, how the socs may have their own struggles, but seem to take it out on the greasers, which is never fair, but there doesn't seem like anything we can do about it, it's just always been that way.

But nah, she wasn’t havin’ it. Kept barkin’ like the world was endin’. I raised my voice a bit, just enough to get her attention but not enough to wake James — the dude’s a royal pain when he gets dragged outta dreamland. Real cranky type, y’know? Could cuss like a sailor with a stubbed toe, especially at two in the freakin’ morning. I figured the only way to keep things cool was to take Freedom — that’s my dog — out for a walk.

I grabbed her leash, clipped it on, and the second I cracked the door, bam — she yanked me out like a bat outta hell. As i Got yanked I thought I didnt see james in bed, but who knows? i didn't always have the best seeing'sight. I barely had time to catch my breath before we were at her favorite park, all shadows and silence.

I figured she was just bein’ dramatic, maybe had the late-night zoomies or somethin’. But then I caught it — that smell. Blood. And lemme tell ya, I know that smell too well.

See, back when I was a dumb kid with somethin’ to prove, I tried climbin’ a mountain — first one, no practice, no nothin’. Folks told me to start small, but I didn’t listen. Some birds spooked me mid-climb, my rope wasn’t tight, and boom — down I went. Thought I’d bought it, swear to God. Hit the ground, felt like I shattered into a hundred pieces. My leg was hangin’ on by a thread and the blood… man, the blood was everywhere. They couldn’t save it. Docs tried, but in the end, they had to take it off. Now I walk with a prosthetic — metal where muscle used to be. Kinda badass, but hell if it don’t ache when it rains.

So when I smelled it tonight, I knew it wasn’t nothin’ small. Freedom kept pullin’, draggin’ me closer ‘til I saw it — a big ol’ pool of blood oozin’ out from behind the fountain. Before I could even blink, that crazy dog yanked the leash right outta my hands and bolted for it.

“GIRL, NO!” I shouted, heart racin’ like I was in a rumble.

Johnny looked terrified—he didn’t want this. Neither did Ponyboy. They weren’t troublemakers; they were just trying to survive. It made me realize the Socs aren’t any better. They’re just as messed up.

That night changed everything.

Winny: Ponyboys a bit of an odd nickname dont you think?

Marica: Yea i guess but i mean their greasers what do you expect from them?

Cherry: Well i mean i dont know it might be odd but he seemed really sweet and respectful when i was chatting with him.

Marica: Yea , I mean we all get a nickname somehow. Just like how yours is winny because your actual name is winter.

Winny: Wait hold on hes a greaser? I know your boyfreind wouldnt be to happy if he heard you were hanging around a greaser.

Cherry: Well I mean what does it matter anyways Im still mad at him for trying to get me to drink with him and it dosent matter if hes a greaser right?

Winny: I guess.

The whole thing between greasers and Socs is kind of a sensitive topic for me. Allthough yes i am a Socs or appear to be on the outside it gets a little complicated when i go into detail about it. Before when my parents used to be together my dad was the main provider but we werent well off and some wouldve considered us as greaser. But after their divorce my mom took me and made something out of what we had and now me and her get ti live a nice life as Socs. Im not sure i can say the same about my dad though, dont talk to him as much or at all but heard around that hes living in some trailor park now so Ill let you know how that goes but now i gotta get back to my study date, bye!!

After the news broke out to everyone, the community was not the same. I never thought someone like Johnny would kill someone. But I wasn't shocked to hear this, Soc's and Greasers always get into fights. So with all this rough fighting, eventually someone would die. I do feel like Johnny and Pony were not in the wrong. They were outnumbered, cold, and it was dark. There was not much they could do other than defend themselves. Nowadays, the community is silent. Cars still drive around, but not as many as before. People still walk around, but there is almost no one.

That park is abandoned, and whenever I see it, I get reminded of what Johnny did.

We were scared when five Socs got out of the Mustang. Their voices were all messed up from the drinks they’d probably had. They weren’t there to talk.

I recognized them. They were the same ones who jumped Johnny. Bob was there — the one with all the rings. I didn’t like him, and I was also afraid of him. He was bigger and stronger than me. They were laughing, but it wasn’t the kind of laugh you want to hear. It was mean and sick laugh.

“Well, well, well, look what we have here,” one of them said. “A couple of greasers out past their bedtime.”

Johnny stood up, real stiff, like he was ready for anything. I was terrified. I wanted to run, run as far away as possible — but I couldn’t. They surrounded us fast. There was nowhere to run.

One of them grabbed me, and the next thing I knew, they were shoving me toward the fountain. My feet slipped. Then they held me down. I couldn’t breathe. I kicked and struggled, but it was no use. Everything started go dark. I was thinking about my life and how important it was, and just when I was saying goodbye in my head—
It stopped.

I gasped and sucked in air like it was the last I’d ever get. I was shaking, trying to figure out what had just happened. That’s when I saw him — Bob — lying still on the ground.

Next to him was this old homeless man, pushing a shopping cart. He kind of looked like Gandalf the Grey. He had a big gray hat, huge ears, a gray bathrobe, and dirty, stained white underwear — I’m not even sure it was white anymore. But what really stood out was his long white beard — it came down to his waist. He also had this walking stick, covered in weird, mysterious plants I had never seen before.

Johnny looked shocked, holding his 6-inch switchblade in his hand.

I asked the old man, “Did you knock that boy out?”

He didn’t say anything. He just stared at us. His eyes were green and purple. I thought they were contacts, but how could a homeless man afford colored contacts? I didn’t get it.

Johnny looked tense, like he had his guard up —I can’t blame him, there are some strange people around her. But I said, “Thank you, if you broke up the fight.”

Still, the man didn’t say anything. He just reached into his pocket, and Johnny got ready for whatever was coming. But what he pulled out looked like a magic wand — no, wait — it was a smoking pipe.

We slowly backed away and ran as fast as we could, stopping at a safe spot. I asked Johnny, “Who was that guy?”

Johnny said, “I don’t know.”

I said, “He must’ve been strong. He knocked out Bob.”

Johnny shook his head. “No. I stabbed him. In the chest.”

I looked at Bob again — there was no blood. I was confused. I looked up — that weird guy was there, just standing and staring.

I said to him, “Please don’t tell the cops. I just wanted to protect me and my friend.”

He mumbled something I couldn’t understand. I thought he was weird.

Then — you walked up next to me.

“So... the weird guy didn’t do anything?”

“Yes,” Johnny said.

While I was talking to Johnny, we heard a scream — a man’s scream. Johnny heard it too. We just stood there, waiting for whatever was coming next. And then — it was Bob. He looked terrified. He ran past us like we didn’t even exist.

So we went home.

The next day, me and Johnny were walking through town, and Johnny found a newspaper. The headline said: "Bob Sheldon Mysteriously Passes Away in Park".

We were shocked. We saw him run by us when we were going home.

I looked at Johnny. He looked at me.

Then we just kept walking... to a breakfast shop.

With another exhale, I head into my house, greeting my family curtly, and walking hastily to the bedroom I shared with my sibling. Speaking of my sibling- they give me a wave and go back to reading. That boy- I recognized him... Ponyboy, Darry's brother. I couldn't remember the other boy's name, John..? Johnny? Something 'round there. What am I supposed to do, call the authorities? Hell no! They'd just, the Socs, I mean, would pay 'em to look the other way and punish the Greasers only, my mind finally hums with questions, said questions

Well... I could just look the other way... nobody could get busted, well, by me, anyway. I blink, mouth opening- then closing. I had no problem with that. "Okay," I mumbled reluctantly to myself, shuffling into bed.

The next day? Papers. The papers had announced the boy dead. Oh, boy, the Greasers would be in for it... I look out the window, the scene still stuck in my head. The way the blood had clung onto the ground, the limp body... I'd never unsee it.

As I watched Ponyboy being water-boarded and Johnny getting beaten. I felt helpless, like my body was frozen, not a single muscle could move.

That's when it happened. Johnny took out his pocket knife... *STAB* My blood ran cold.

Johny. killed. a Socs.

I quickly ran back home after I had witnessed what had happened. Not a single image left my mind that night.

One Night, around 2:15 am, I heard yelling at Ponyboy's house, so I looked outside my window and saw who seemed like Darry and Ponyboy arguing, and to myself, I thought nothing of it since it was a basic sibling relationship. But then saw Darry hit Ponyboy, and as soon as Ponyboy registered what just happened, he ran straight out the door. He looked pretty mad to me, so I followed him to see if he was ok, and after running for a while, we ended up at some park, and then I saw someone else who looked like johnny and to my surprise it was.

I knew Johnny cause whenever Ponyboy and I went out to eat, he would always talk about all his friends such as Two Bit, Dally, and Johnny. and he would always show me a picture of them just to make sure I won't forget how they look. I am a very forgetful person, sadly...

But once I saw Johnny, I wanted to go and meet him and introduce myself, but right when I got up, it seemed like a blue Mustang drove up to the park and parked right next to Johnny and Ponyboy, and then a bunch of people got out, so at first I thought it was some of Johnny's or Ponyboy's friends until one of the people that got out of the car tried to drown Ponyboy, so I Sprung up and ran to go help them but while I was on my way Johnny stabed one of them and ended up killing him. I was in shock. I beat up people if they mess with me or my friends, but I have never experienced killing someone or someone murdering another person. Once I saw this, I did not want to get involved, so I ran back to my house as fast as I could. Once I got there, I slammed my bedroom door shut and locked it. I tried to go to sleep, but I could not after what I had just experienced. After an hour, I was finally able to fall asleep.

The next day:

Once it was morning, I looked at the newspaper and saw an image of the boy that Johnny stabbed I got sick and went to my bathroom to handle my business, once i was done I just got noticed that johnny and Ponyboy ran away and a few Minutes later someone knocked on my door and when I went to go answer it, it was the poliece they wanted to bring me to the station to ask me questions. But since I was a friend of Ponyboy, just like Johnny, I would do the same thing as Johnny and protect my friends, so I decided to lie and hope for the best for Johnny and Ponyboy and wish they would be okay

This News Article in the Daily Suberbs Times has been written by Levi Anthon, an Old WWI veteran of our community.

Later, in the newspaper, someone in a madras was stabbed in the park and died. I hope Ponyboy and Johnny wouldn't be arrested for defending them, even though Johnny didn't have to go that far.

As I came up on the fountain, my heart dropped and I saw something that made me wish I had stayed in my tent with my practically brand new sleeping bag I found out behind Walmart. It was a body, there, on the ground, and next to it was that boy I saw who had a switchblade in his hand, talking to another boy on the ground. "Hey!" I yelled "What is going o... wait... Johnny, is that you!?" The boy lifted his head up, and sure enough, it was Johnny.

"L-L-Let me explain..."

Johnny was a good friend of mine. Although he was a lot younger we would always hang out here at my park. He was often lonely so I would go sit with him. I trust Johnny and what he says.

After Johnny had explained the situation and how they were drowning Ponyboy, I understood why he did what he did but definitely don't like he needed to kill that fellow. "The police would definitely go looking for you and you needed to leave, fast,"

"Maybe you should go too that friend of yours, Dally, the one your always talkin' about."

I hope nothing is going to happen to Johnny. All I knew was that it was self-defence. But you know them cops, they always blame the greasers.

I went home knowing how only I was just staring at the ceiling when I drifted off to sleep.

We talked for a while, just shootin’ the breeze — about nothin’ and everything. Then, kind of outta nowhere, he asked me to read that poem, Nothing Gold Can Stay. Said Pony had read it to him once, and it stuck with him.

I didn’t know it off the top of my head, so I walked around the hospital askin' a few nurses if they knew it. Most of ‘em just shrugged me off — too busy or just didn’t care. Finally found a copy in some old beat-up book someone left in the waiting room. I scribbled it down on the back of a receipt I had in my pocket and brought it back to his room.

I read it to him that day — slow, not really sure what it all meant yet. After that, every time I came back, it was just kinda expected. I’d sit down, he’d give me that look, and I’d read it. Over and over. He never got tired of hearin’ it.

And every time I saw him layin' there — still, calm, like nothin' in the world could touch him — I kept thinkin’ how strange it was. I mean, here was this kid who saved some kids from a burnin’ church, who killed a man, who nearly died himself — and yet, he looked so… at peace. Like none of it could shake him.

That was what was special about Johnny.

Then one day, when I showed up, the doctor pulled me aside before I could get to the room. Told me it’d have to be my last time visitin’. Said things weren’t lookin’ good, and they were makin’ changes. I just nodded, swallowed hard, and thanked him for lettin’ me visit in the first place.

But I didn’t tell Johnny. I didn’t want him thinkin’ about it, worryin’ or feelin’ like it was goodbye.

So I read the poem again — same as always. Then I took the scrap of paper I’d been carryin’ and scribbled something at the bottom. One of the quotes from Gone with the Wind, the one he mentioned a few times when we talked about the book. It reminded me of the poem, too.

"Nothing lasts, really. But if you remember it, it stays with you."

I folded it real careful and slipped it into the front cover of the book, right behind the little description page. Thought maybe he’d find it later — maybe it'd mean somethin' to him like it did to me.

That day, I stayed longer than usual. He wanted to talk about his favorite book, so we did. He lit up a little — the kind of way you don’t forget. We talked ‘til visiting hours ran out.

When I got up to leave, he looked right at me and said, “Bye, Cass. Thanks for everything.”

I was caught off guard. He always said see you later, or next time, or just gave a small wave. But I didn’t let it show.

I just smiled and said, “Bye, Johnny. Until next time.”

I don’t know who to feel worse for. Bob’s gone, and that’s sad, but Pony and Johnny are just kids. They looked so shaken up the last time I saw them. Now they’re on the run, and the whole town’s buzzing. Some folks are saying it’s proof the Greasers are dangerous, but I think it shows how messed up things are between the Socs and Greasers. It’s like nobody wants to understand each other, and we all end up picking sides. I wish things didn’t have to be this way.

You're always not using your head and getting in trouble. We all are worried about you and Johnny, the cops are looking for you. They think you'r in Texas, but I know you'r somewhere else. Dally won't tell us where you are though. I wish you wouldn't have ran away that night. If you hadn't then all this wouldn't have happened. If you just didn't go to that parking lot to hangout until 2am then I wouldn't have gotten mad. You need to use your brain more. I think you should come back and turn yourself in. You can tell the cops the truth. Tell them it was in self defense and you didn't mean to kill him. They won't punish you as hard if they know that. What else are you going to do run from the cops for the rest of your life? That won't do you any good. Please come home and turn yourself in we all are worried about you. The sooner you turn yourself in the less the cops will punish you.

See you later, Darry.

She wants you to be careful. Even though she won't say it, I know she cares about you. She talks about you constantly. You know what? I'm gonna add my own advice. One: If you really are in Texas, (that's the rumor going around here), be careful. My aunt lives there, and I can tell you, avoid Luchenback. It is full of thugs. Though, on second thought, you would probably fit in there from what I've heard. Anyway. Two: You are probably under a lot of stress, and you are definitely going through a lot of emotions. So stop. Take a moment to breathe. Trust me; it helps. I've got to go now, but just remember: Take it slow.

Be careful,

Ivy and Cherry.

Dear Johnny,

I hope it’s okay I’m writing this. I don’t know you that well, but I’ve seen you around, and after everything that happened, I just wanted to say something. When Ponyboy told me you said “Stay gold,” it really stuck with me. You’re right, the world is tough, and it’s hard to find anything good. But you still have that good heart, even with everything you’ve been through.

I know you’re probably scared about what happens next, and yeah, you made a big choice at the park. But I think you did it because you had to, not because you wanted to. You’re braver than most people. If I were you, I’d turn myself in and tell the truth. The cops might not be fair, but running forever will make things worse. You saved those kids in the church, that means something. You’re not just a Greaser, you’re someone who still believes in the good stuff, and that’s rare.

Please don’t give up. Not on yourself. Not on the world.

—Jessie

- Brexton Pax, a Socs.

It's been a few days since the murder. Dally knows where you guys are right now, and he’s the only one who knows. He won't tell me, or even Darry where you could be. Johnny, I know that you feel guilty about the murder, but you guys can't hide forever. Even Darry is getting worried, he's turning soft in a way I’ve never seen before. Can’t you guys just come back? You can tell the police what happened, or you guys can try. You guys know that you can't hide forever. Or maybe you can, but would you want to hide in a church for the rest of your lives? You have us here for you back in town, your family, your brothers. I hope that you can at least tell Darry where you are. He’s ready to end things and give up. But please show him you're not ready to give up.

- Dante

Connection To the story: Ruby isn't in either group, but she often sees Ponyboy at school and used to talk to Johnny when they were younger She's heartbroken by what's happening and writes her blog to try and make sense of everything around her:

Ruby age 16 blog #1

 I still can't believe what happened at the park everyone's talking about how Bob Sheldon one of the socials ended up dead and that Ponyboy and Johnny disappeared people are saying it was self-defense that the social came after him but most adults are too quick to call the greasers dangerous like always I knew Johnny when we were kids he was shy sweet wouldn't hurt anyone unless he had no other choice it's hard to believe he was pushed so far that something like this could happen I'm not saying violence is ever okay but it's not like greasers go looking for trouble trouble just seems to find them honestly this whole thing makes me see the socials in a new light they're not just kids with nice cars and good clothes some of them are bullies with too much power this isn't just about two gangs fighting anymore it feels like a whole town is breaking apart

I was thinking of the quote that you said—nothing gold can stay—before the church burned to ashes. In the hospital, all I could hear and imagine was what you said to me that day: nothing gold can stay. I was thinking how when I could walk, that was the gold that you were talking about. But now I’m crippled for life. I wish I could go back in time and run away before the church burned down, but that’s probably what every person will think when they have something important just disappear and never to be seen again. And now I understand how much life is important, and we can only live once, so we should enjoy every millisecond of it. But sometimes changes are good, no matter how much your life is messed up. We still can make the best of it and just enjoy what we have right now. And don’t forget—keep thinking gold. But sometimes changes are good no matter if it’s bad.

So Eden sank to grief. So dawn goes down to day. Nothing gold can stay. But you can find a new gold in the grief you stay.

I know that you are stressed out right now from saving the children from the fire. It was very noble of you to risk your life and save children. I know how you are feeling like Johnny in the recovery room, whether he might live or he might die. It is a very stressful thing to go through losing a friend, someone that you care about. I hope that you will feel better soon.

Sincerly, Sodapop

I'm sorry for hitting you, pony, I didn't mean it, I swear I was just mad. The day you ran out, I instantly regretted it. We found out what happened, and we just about froze when we were reading the newspaper. Don't tell anyone, but I'm kind of glad Johnny killed that boy, and honestly, I didn't think you had it in you, Johnny. We're trying to find out more about where you are, but you know how Dally is. Soda's worried sick, and Two-Bit always asks if you guys have come back yet...we all miss you two a lot, I hope you're doing okay, and we wish you'd just give yourselves up I know you're struggling. Please, come home

-sincerely Darry-

Life isn't the same without you here. Soda is very sad, and I can't describe my feelings. He wakes up yelling for you, and I don't have the heart to tell him you're not here. I am so sorry I slapped you; I regret it every day. If I could go back in time, I would, but I can't. So, I have to tell you one thing. Keep moving, and wait for it to blow over. I want you back right now, but I know you can't come back, maybe for a while. And please, stay with Johnny. You will be better off with each other. I know you think this is your fault, but it's mine. I made you run off, which resulted in all of this. I'm sorry for being so harsh on you. Please remember that I am sorry.

Love, Darry

I am sorry for what I did back at the house. I apologize and hope you can come back. I know you probably hate me, but I hope you will accept my apology and return. Because we all feel worried for you two. The cold nights are a problem, you should find a good shelter to sleep in at night. From your point of view, you are probably thinking that you never want to return here, but it is dangerous out there. You already caused a major event at a community park. I think you should also reflect on your choices. But my only concern is that you stay safe out there.

I'm sorry for what happened at the park that night, I know that you're angry. I hope that you will forgive me for bringing you there. I really didn't feel like running away, I was just angry at darry for hitting me like that. one word of advice to you though, you should definitely find a better place to live. I have seen how your parents treat you and how they don't care about you. I feel sorry for you, and I wish that you would consider moving in with us. if not then that's ok but you should try to find a better living situation then were you are now. hope you feel better soon.

respectfully, Ponyboy

Thanks for being a real friend. You always treated me like I mattered. That meant a lot.

You see things differently from other people. You notice the good stuff, even when things are bad. Don’t forget that.

I know life’s been rough, but you’re strong. You’re smart, too. I think you can do something big if you keep trying.

Take care of Soda and Darry. And take care of yourself, too.

Sincerely, Johnny

i am so sorry that you broke you back and your in the hospital. but I just wanted to thank you for saving all those kids from the fire because without you all of them would be dead but hey let me give you so small advice, let you mom in the hospital room she just wants to make sure your ok. i know that life at home isn't great but at least try. please. do it for me

love marcia

I have some advice for you. You should live in the moment and be more grateful for what have and not complain about what you don't have. Like you are always disliking your life on the streets but you should be grateful that you have your family unlike Johnny before he was hospitalized in critical condition.

From Emily

- Brexton Pax

I know things are hard right now, but I wanted to check on you. What you and Johnny did at the church was brave—you saved those kids. I think Johnny was right when he told you to “stay gold.” You see the world in a good way, and you shouldn’t lose that. I think you should go back home and talk to Darry and Sodapop. They care about you more than you know. Running isn’t the answer, and you’ve already done more than most people ever would. Keep being the good person you are—don’t let the world change that.

—Kyle

Ill see you tonight at the Rumble

• Rodney

I saw the news today about what had happened. The abandoned church catching on fire, you and Johnny jumping in to save those kids. That was really brave for you to do, and I'm glad you're okay. I heard about Johnny's and Dally's conditions especially how you and Johnny have to go to juvenile court. I know things seems really hard right now, a lot is going on, but I want you to remember to take things slowly. You don't have to deal with everything in one day, take it slowly, one day at a time. Remember the positive times if you start to feel down. The world and time don't stop for anybody, all we can do is push through it. I wish the best recovery for you, Johnny, and Dally. Take care.

Sincerely,

Willow

Dear Ponyboy,

I've seen you and Johnny on the morning paper, "Juvenile Delinquents Turn Heroes." That's awfully brave what you guys did. But I heard that Johnny and Dally's in the hospital, hope they're alright. You know, I'm kinda glad Johnny killed that Soc, and honestly, you should be too. Wish I had a friend like that, it's crazy that it went from Johnny killing a Soc to becoming heroes.

I heard around that there's going to be a rumble between the Soc's and the Greasers. I bet we're gonna win, that's unless they pull a blade in the fight. I hope you guys are alright, though. For the most part, everyone is worried about you guys, I mean, they know why you guys ran away, but they also can't stand you guys being away. And honestly, Darry's probably the most worried one about you, Pony.

Some advice from me: you guys should turn yourselves in, sooner or later, you guys are going to have to go to trial. Maybe you guys will be let off easy. I know you guys are scared, I would be too if I were you, but running away from your problems will make them worse. You're a good person, Pony - so don't stop being that person. The world might feel like it's full of badness, but you can be the good, along with the gang. So, that's all, I hope the best recovery for you, Dally, and Johnny.

Be safe.

Respectfully,

Luna

I know it seems hard and you're frightened about the whole situation but just remember you can do it. You guys stuck up for each other through this whole thing with the dead soc and all. I do not doubt that you guys will make it through this. Also about the soc thing, I think that was really brave of Johnny, so mention that to him if you see him.

I know some may say that Johnny should be put in the chair and you to jail, but I don't think that's right because you stood up to them when they tried to jump you, which is crazy. But if you stay strong and don't let anyone bother you, you'll be good. 

I do not think you should be in jail or a boys' home. Johnny stood up for you and endured all this pain for you, so be strong and don't turn yourselves in. Even if you're a greaser, you shouldn't be put in jail. I wish you luck for whatever comes your way, and I hope that Johnny and Dally are okay.

Sincerely, Maya

Take care (and time), Mary

I'm writing this because I care, and because I need to say something before the situation spirals out of control further. I know you and Ponyboy are in a tough spot, and I can only imagine how scared and confused you must be. But you have to remember that you're not alone, and that you're both stronger than you think.

The news from Dally has shaken all of us. Bob's death is a heavy burden, and it's natural to feel lost and afraid. But the fire in the church, and the news of what happened, has also shown a different side of you, Johnny. You saved those kids, and that was an act of bravery that you never knew you possessed. Don't let that fear, that confusion, take away the good that you did.

Remember Ponyboy's poem, "Stay gold"? That's not just some pretty words; it's a call to action. It's a challenge to hold on to your goodness, to keep that spark alive. Don't let the darkness of what happened consume you. Don't let fear dictate your actions.

I know it's a hard road, but you have to find your way forward. Start by talking to someone. Dally's right, you need to get home and turn yourselves in. Don't let fear be your guide. Talk to your friends, your family, and the authorities. They'll understand, and they can help you.

This isn't the end, Johnny. It's just the beginning of a different chapter. The fire has taken away so much, but it has also shown a new strength within you and Ponyboy. You both have so much to offer the world, and you can choose to let this experience make you stronger or to let it break you.

I believe in you, Johnny. I believe in your ability to stay gold, to overcome the challenges that are ahead, and to find a future filled with hope and possibility.

Sincerely,

Cherry

From my perspective as a teacher at the local high school, I've seen firsthand the lingering effects of the events that unfolded. While the immediate violence has subsided, the scars of that night remain. Students still look at each other with suspicion, and the old stereotypes persist, even if they're not as openly expressed. It's a slow process of healing, and it requires constant effort and empathy.

Existing Character:

Dally's Father:

As the father of one of the key figures in the story, I can't pretend to have an unbiased opinion on the choices made by those involved. The events shattered our family and left deep wounds. While I understand Dally's actions were born of desperation and a desire to protect those he cared for, they ultimately led to a devastating outcome. I believe Dally, and others like him, need more than just punishment; they need understanding, support, and a chance to rebuild their lives.

Shared Perspective:

Both of us, a teacher and a father, believe that the community's future hinges on the ability to move past the bitterness and find common ground. We need to foster a culture of empathy, understanding, and open communication. It won't be easy, but it's the only way to create a society where everyone feels safe and valued.

Dally's Father, Reflecting:

Looking back at Dally's choices, I see a young man who was desperate to escape his circumstances. He was trapped in a cycle of violence and resentment, and his actions were a desperate attempt to break free. But in the end, he only perpetuated the cycle. While his actions caused harm, I also see a glimmer of hope. He showed a capacity for love and loyalty, even in the face of adversity.

Original Character, Reflecting:

I believe the future of our community depends on the choices we make today. We must actively challenge the stereotypes and prejudices that still persist, and we must create opportunities for young people from different backgrounds to connect and learn from each other. We need to foster a sense of community, where everyone feels safe and valued, regardless of their social standing. It won't be easy, but it's a future worth fighting for.

I read the newspaper, “Juvenile Delinquents Turned Heroes.” I hope you’re doing all right. The story was depressing. I dearly hope Johnny and Dally recover. You’re so brave for helping those kids. I knew you had good in you, I didn’t believe it when I read that Bob had died. The Socs and Greasers are supposed to do a ‘rumble’ thing soon because of it. I hope you aren’t taking part in it, it’s stupid. It won’t matter anyway, no fight will matter; it’ll just repeat. Please, stay with your family as long as you can, you’ll regret it if you don’t. I hope you know your brothers miss you dearly and are waiting for your return.

From,

Cherry Valance.

Hey buddy, it sure feels like it has been a while since I saw you. I found someone's paper that they had thrown away when I was looking for some grub. I noticed you were in the headline! That was a full spiral. First, you were a murderer and now your a hero! I was very happy for you until I read the part about you being in critical condition. I mean, I still am happy, but I don't want you to die or something! All I want to tell you is too not give up.

I know it may seem hard and you may want to just lie there and die but you can't, there are too many people that care about you and like seeing your. Me, For Example, if you just gave up I wouldn't have any friends. You are my only friend and I can't loose you. Who am I going to watch the stars with? Also, this is about Ponyboy and your little gang. Your their puppy remember, they all care about you the most. They can't loose their favorite member.

I know it may seem discouraging and you might not want to have to live with the consequences like, having burn marks, or a broken whatever but I know its worth it. You need to keep fighting to survive and become healthy again. People need you, like me, the gang, even your parents. Yeah, that's right, they care about you too, they may just not show it. I know deep down in their bodies they care and love you. You need to fight this and not give up.

Remeber do not give up. We all need you, Johnny, as a friend, a son, a gang puppy, and a best friend. We need you Johny to fight this and survive. Even if you feel regretful for doing what you did to that guy in the park, you'll get through it, I know your strong and remember, DON'T GIVE UP.

Sincerely your pal, Tom (From The park)

Hey, it's your old friend Aaron from high school. You probably don't remember me, but we became instant friends on the first day. I did not write this to make small talk; I came to talk about how you have been. I have heard from Mary, if that's her name. She told me what happened, where you are, and that she had already written a letter to you, not too long after. And I know that what happened was out of fear and without thinking, we have been friends for only a week or so, but I know you enough that this is the kind of stuff you don't do. I know killing someone or running away out of town was the only option; you had no defence and did not know what to do. BUT KILLING SOMEONE IS A WHOLE DIFFERENT STORY!!!! I just hope that you are okay, but come on, I know that you are not that good with your brain, but you had to know that killing someone was the worst Idea you could come up with. But at least you are making progress, you help kids escape a fire, at least that covers a bit, but I hope I can talk to you soon, and not talk to you on the phone when in prison

Sincerely,

Aaron

Honestly, it's been a while, you might not know me, or maybe you do, I'm the old WWI veteran you see from across the park. The whole reason I know you is because I met this homeless dude named Tom who told me about you, and noticed my headline when I was walking around the park. I talked about you in the headline right after I saw the fight when I was gonna go to Bob's Donuts. Honestly, it seems rough for you but make sure you don't lose hope: here's a personal experience.

It was 1918, and the Battle of Meuse-Argonne was happening, I held my breath, I was in Europe. i was 16. Me and my crewmates wanted to end the war with the germans as fast as possible, but I felt lightheaded, and weak. My commander told me something though that made me rethink quitting. "If dark times lie ahead, run too it, its not just pure darkness, its what is in store for you, what god has in store for you (oh and the commander was Christian, I was too, that's why he said that)." That made me realize that instead of running from the Germans, I should fight against them. That's when I charged into the Battle, with all my might I managed to capture 3 German Soldiers in the Crossfire. I felt at that moment very patriotic and continued to fight with every dose of energy. Those were the good days...

Now You can understand why I mean you should "Run to the Darkness", Thats what I want you to do. Whatever Darkness is in your way, Chase it, Chase it until it becomes light.

Remember Ponyboy, Running to the Darkness is not a bad thing, there's always light in the darkness, you just have to look for it.

Sincerely with Great Gratitude,

Levi.

I heard about everything that has been happening to you and Johnny, and it sounds crazy. I am not sure you remember me, I'm from your school, a few grades older than you, and I keep getting updates about you two, and found out you ran away after killing one of the Socs, Bob, which I know is probably scary. My advice is to keep low and maybe don't make any more stupid or rash decisions until this whole thing gets sorted out.

I know this may be a lot on both of you and probably not how you thought things would work out, but you can't change anything besides making sure both of your guys' futures are safe. Just stay safe.

Sincerely,

Kat.

It's me, Sarah. I'm one of your neighbors. I recently talked to your brothers, they said you hadn't returned yesterday. I wanted to tell you to try to act normally, not like a greaser or a soc, just a typical person. Some people don't believe in the social hierarchy like those. Most will say that where you are on that hierarchy matters, but to a person who doesn't believe in that stuff, you might seem like you are acting like a crazy person.

I hope this gets to you safely.

From Sarah

I’ve seen you around school, and that time I seen you at the park, and I keep thinking about what you did and how you saved Ponyboy from the soc's. Which I think was really crazy and brave. But I'm writing to you to give you my advice, and it is to keep quiet about what had happened and focus on being you and to not letting others take you down because if you keep letting that happen its not gonna help with whats been happening to you right now so I hope you stay safe and out of trouble.

Sincerely,

Mia

                            - James Amman

I have something to tell you. Before you go into the abandoned church, you should try to look out for falling debris. If you get hit by any of them there will be a small chance of you living and even if you survive you be crippled for life. That means you will have to stay at your house for the rest of your life. You won't be able to see your friends anymore. So if you do save the kids, will you be able to save yourself? I hope you take this advice and look out or you may not see your friends again. Look out Johnny.

Next time u go to church, look around and think about it, make sure the roof is not going to fall. Well, don't get hit by another one and if u do, this time u will be crippeled for life.

I heard about the church incident, and I hope you're okay. Thank you for saving my little brother, and I hope you have a blessed and good day. And I hope that you recover fully. And next time you go in a burning building, keep your head on a swivel.

hey it kinda feels like it has been a while since i last saw you i found someones papaer that they had thrown away whem i was looking for some grub.

What you and Johnny did was courageous.I hope you keep that part of you that notices the good in things, even when life gets hard.

When Johnny said, “Stay gold,” he meant to hold onto your kindness and hope. Don’t let the pain or labels change who you are. You’re more than a Greaser—you’re thoughtful and real, and you matter.

Stay gold.

Sincerely,

Maestro

I hope this letter finds you okay. I’ve been meaning to write to you for a while now, but I guess I never found the right words until today. Things around here have felt heavier than usual, and I can’t stop thinking about everything that’s happened. I often worry about Johnny. Even before all this, I’d catch glimpses of him around the neighborhood, and there was always something in his eyes like he was carrying a weight the rest of us couldn’t see. When I was reading the newspapers the other day and saw what happened at the church, my heart sank. I couldn’t believe it. It’s different when you know the person behind the headlines. On my way to the hospital to check on him, I overheard some other Socs talking near the corner store. It surprised me, honestly. I heard them saying how maybe it was time for all this fighting between the Greasers and Socs to stop. They were saying how stupid it was that our whole town’s split in two like this, and how no other place seems to be like ours. And you know what? I agreed with them. It made me realize how pointless all this hate is. How many people have to get hurt before we finally understand that we’re not all that different? Sure, we dress different and live on different sides of town, but at the end of the day, we’re all just kids trying to figure life out. It’s exhausting, carrying around all this anger, always watching your back, always choosing sides. I don’t know if my words mean much, but I hope you can talk to your friends about this about maybe finding a way to stop the fighting, to end this cycle before anyone else gets hurt. Johnny’s already paid too high a price. None of us should have to. Anyway, I just wanted to let you know where I stand. I don’t want to be a part of this war anymore. I’d rather be someone who tries to fix what’s broken. Take care of yourself, Ponyboy. And please tell Johnny I’m hoping he pulls through.

Sincerely,
Caelus

Hey Ponyboy, look, I'm sorry for hurting you. I didn't mean for that to happen. It was just an accident. I was just worried and stressed, and it just happened. You weren't home before curfew, and I didn't know if anything had happened to you. Then you ran away, and I freaked out. You were gone for almost hours. WHAT HAPPENED!? I understand if you just wanted to blow off some steam, but you and Johnny didn't have to kill that Soc. After that, the news spread. It's in the newspapers, on the radio, the TV, everybody's talking about it. I can't stand this anymore, Ponyboy. The police came and questioned us. Now all the socs are out for us. They tried to beat up 2-bit, but luckily, he's safe. Everything has turned to chaos. If I were you guys, I'd turn myself in before you make matters worse. If you guys just come clean, then maybe your sentence will be shorter or at least lessen the severity of Johnny's punishment. Please stay safe.

Sincerely, Darry

I am writing to you to wonder how your brother's friend, Johnny, is doing. I have heard that he's injured and would like to send my regards to your friends and family. That besides, I understand that you've disciplined your sibling, Ponyboy, once. And yes, you provide for them. But I implore you to think next time you decide to discipline your youngest brother. Though I'm sure you didn't think. It was pure, well, surprise. I am half sure you didn't mean it. And I believe you should get a hold of this "issue." It's a problem and I would rather not have to hear of this complication. Though, I do understand the situation. I won't go too into this topic, but I do understand what led you to do the things you've done. Now, I haven't heard of any apologies in order, so I offer you that advice. My hopes to Johnny.

Sincerely, Rowen;

from a few blocks down.

It's been a long time since I've seen you, but I've been thinking about you. I heard about what happened, and it seems like you are in a mess right now, but I am thinking about you and have your back in any situation.

Sincerely, Paul

I heard about what happened to you and how you broke that young back of yours. I can't believe you went into that old church on fire to save those rando kids that were climbing that hill. You are one hero, ain't you? U must be struggling with those narly 3rd degree burns of yours. Hope now that the people of Tulsa will recognize you and know that you are a brave and good person. I hope you are doing ok. I'll send some money so you can get good medical attention. Rest easy, buddy.

Sincerely Bill

I still hear the gunshot in my head sometimes. The one that ended Dally’s life. I wonder if anyone ever really saw the real him before it was too late. Maybe Johnny did. Maybe Ponyboy. I think I should have tried harder.

I’ve been thinking a lot about what it means to choose sides. For the longest time, I thought I had to stand with the Socs because that’s where I came from. But watching this unfold—Johnny’s heroism, Ponyboy’s grief, Dally’s spiral—it made me realize how much I’ve been looking away. Pretending things were better than they were just because I could afford to.

I hope you’re holding on, even when things feel heavy. After everything we’ve been through, I want you to remember: don’t let the darkness of our world snuff out that light in you. You have a choice now to rise above the pain and anger that surrounds us. Channel your feelings into your writing; it’s a powerful way to cope and share your story.

Think about your future, Ponyboy—don’t let it be defined by the violence we’ve faced. There’s still so much good in you, and you have the potential to create something beautiful from this chaos. Stay true to yourself and lean on your friends; you’re not alone in this fight.

Take care of that golden heart of yours.

Mozzie

Im writing this letter to you to let you know im here. After the night jhonny passed away in the hospital Ive been noticing how youve not been acting like yourself recently, i mean i would too if my friend past away but i guess i still just wanted to write this to you. I wanted to let you know im here for you even if i can be tough on you sometimes i do it because i love you and im trying the best i can to protect you. We may not have the cloest relationship but were still brothers and im still gonna be here for you whether you want me too or not. If you need me ill be here to talk with.

Love you and stay safe ponyboy.

So I walked.

Took Freedom through the old streets, the ones where trouble usually finds you before you find it. I’ve walked those same blocks a hundred times since I got out of the hospital all those years ago—me and my busted leg, me and Freedom. Usually, it’s eyes on us from across the street. Sometimes a group of Socs gets bold, tries something slick. Not today.

Today, they saw me comin’ and stepped back.

I heard there was a rumble the other night. Big one. After Johnny passed. Can’t say I know much more than that—don’t know the names of the boys who were in it, don’t know who swung first—but the streets feel different now. Like everyone’s nursing bruises, not just the kind you see on skin. The Socs especially... they’re quieter, mean looks but no bite behind ‘em. They used to group up, circle like wolves, looking for someone smaller to chew on. Now? They keep their distance.

Maybe it’s the rumble. Maybe it’s what happened to Johnny. Maybe both.

I didn’t know him all that well. Wasn’t my best friend or anything like that. But I visited. He liked talkin’ to me. Said Freedom reminded him of something good. I never asked what. Figured he needed that piece of “good” more than he needed to explain it.

Now I just keep walkin’. That’s what I do when I don’t know what else to do. Me and Freedom, block after block. My prosthetic leg creaks every now and then, like it’s got feelings too. Maybe it does. I’ve got more metal in me than some bikes, but I still feel heavy.

This world—it takes the quiet ones first. The gentle ones. And leaves behind people like me, who’ve had to be hard just to make it this far. Johnny… he deserved better than what he got. And now the streets are changed because of him. Because of what he left behind. Not in the loud kind of way, but the kind that settles in your bones and makes people look over their shoulders.

I didn’t cry. Don’t think I will. But I’ll remember him. Every time I see a group of Socs hesitate. Every time the streets feel too quiet.

Rest easy, kid.

Me and Freedom’ll keep walkin’. Someone’s gotta.

It’s been a while since everything happened. Things in town still feel heavy. We lost Johnny and Dally, and it feels like nothing will ever be the same. A lot of us Greasers are trying to stay out of trouble now, but it’s hard when people still look down on us.

I don’t think the Greasers and Socs will ever fully get along. There’s too much history and hurt between us. Maybe a few people will try to change things, but most will stay the same.

I think about Dally a lot. He made choices that showed how much he cared about Johnny, even if it cost him everything. It reminds me that sometimes being tough isn’t about fighting — it’s about protecting the people you love.

Because of what happened, I think some of us will try harder to live better lives. I just hope we don’t forget what Johnny and Dally taught us. Maybe someday, things will get better for Greasers like us.

Dear Tulsa Tattle,

Ever since everything happened with Johnny and Dally, things around here just don’t feel the same. I walk past the old lot where the Greasers used to hang out, and it’s way too quiet now. I wasn’t close with them, but I knew Ponyboy a little from school, and he’s not the kind of guy people should’ve been judging so hard. After the fire and Johnny dying, it really felt like a part of our town broke. Even some Socs have been acting different, like they finally realize this whole fight between groups is just stupid. I don’t think the Greasers and Socs are suddenly gonna be friends, but maybe people are thinking more before acting. Ponyboy looks like he’s carrying a lot now, but he’s also showing people he’s more than what they thought. Losing Johnny and Dally changed everything for him, and kind of for all of us. I just hope we can all stop the hate before something like this happens again.

From,

Mason Reynolds

All of a sudden, the dead Johnny from the 1800s jumped into the conversation and said,
“You are still his family.”

“But I’m dead now,” I said. “I can’t be with Ponyboy, and Two-Bit, and Steve, and Sodapop, and Darry. I can’t be with them forever.”

“No,” said Johnny from the 1800s.

Then Johnny from the 2000s said,
“When did you get here?”

Johnny, that just died said,
“That’s not important. What is important is that you understand something: Change is good. Ponyboy and everyone else can learn that losing someone they care about is painful. And you need to know that too.

Remember that letter you sent to Ponyboy? You told him that change is good. And now that you're in the underworld, you need to make friends. Don’t just sit in a corner all day and cry.

Where is that Johnny that stood up and killed Bob to save his best friend Ponyboy?”

“…Okay,” said Johnny that just died, in a sobbing voice.

“Did someone call me?” said Bob.

“No,” said Johnny from the 1800s.

Johnny from the 2000s shouted kindly,
“Straighten up, little soldier.”

Oh, did you think I was talking about the recent events? No, I meant the cheer competition that WE JUST DOMINATED! TAKE THAT VALLEY VIEW!!! I mean, I am glad that all of this was figured out. I'm glad that Pony an' Soda didn't get put in a boys' home. I'm glad that all of this chaos is over. Well, in a way. Socs an' greasers still have rumbles. We are still two different classes. But in a way, we're closer, I think. I mean, we still fight, and greasers still be greasers, but in a way it's different. Like we're less separated and more... alike, I think. I'm just glad that nobody got hurt in that rumble. We were smart for pulling back. I mean, sure, one kid got a concussion, and the others are beaten pretty badly, but still. I still feel sad about that kid... Johnny. I went and visited him when he was in the hospital, and there and then I could feel that he was on the brink of death. He seemed to know it too. He seemed ready. I think he was just holding on for Ponyboy. And then that other greaser robbed, pulled a G U N on the police and got shot! I... I don't know what to think about that. Cherry is pretty shaken. Like, before we would all talk about who likes who and that stuff, and now we stretch in silence. Cherry hardly ever shows up to practice, but when she does, she puts her heart into it. I think that's why we just beat Valley View. Do you wanna hear about that?! Oh, yeah, I was pretty good... (;

Johnny’s death especially made folks stop and think; he wasn’t just a Greaser, he was a kid who died trying to do something good. Some Socs, like Randy, seem changed, but I don’t know if the division between the Greasers and Socs will ever fully heal. Maybe the younger ones, like Ponyboy, can carry things in a better direction.

The Greasers got their pride, but what did it really cost? The Socs ain’t untouched either. They lost too, in their own way. The divide ain’t going away overnight, but maybe we’ve learned something. The world’s been divided by more than just money. Maybe we’re starting to see that we ain’t all that different.

Ponyboy’s gonna be fine. He’s learning. He’ll do more than just survive. The rest of us? We’ve got a choice to make. Keep the hate going, or find a better way. I’m not saying it’ll heal, but there’s hope for change if we try.

Ponyboy and Johnny’s deaths really hurt everyone. Ponyboy is still trying to figure things out, and Dally just isn’t the same without Johnny. I don’t think it will ever really go away. The Socs still have their fancy lives, and the Greasers still have all the pain.

The choices that they made were all about trying to survive. Ponyboy and Johnny did what they had to, but it cost them. Dally gave up because he couldn’t take losing Johnny. Cherry tried to help, but it was too much to fix.

I got a couple of scratches and bruises, but i the end I was ok. was able to take down at least 3 Socs. I am pretty strong if I say so. Myself i was like Darry, but smaller. I had big muscles and knew how to fight. But many of us got injured, some of us fractured bones, sprains, cuts, and LOTS of Bruises, but in the end we won. I was happy but also worried bout Ponyboy, so I went to see if he was ok, but to my surprise, he was crying. "Why are you crying, Ponyboy?" Said Rodney," I just got news that both my friends Dally and Johnny had just died". I felt bad but also curious about how they died, but did not want to ask PonyBoy cause he was already having a hard time, so I did not want to bother him. So I asked his brother Sodapop, cause I'm sure he would know right, right? So Dally died cause he tried to rob a store, but then got shot by the cops, and Johnny died after the Church caught on fire. But it's sad, I hope they can now rest in peace and hope they have no regrets...

I heard about Johnny dying and Dally gettin shot. I know it's rough right now, but how have you been? I can't remember the last time we hung out. I've been thinking about the good old days, smokin' cigs and popin sodas and stayin' out all night. After that rumble, u must be all worn out, don't be thinkin about too much stuff, you've got to get some sleep, stay well Pony.

Sincerly Joe.

I remember the night of the rumble like a fever dream. The kind of storm you can’t see coming until it’s on top of you. The Greasers won, sure, but what did we really win? Two kids dead, and one more nearly shattered trying to keep it together.

The divide between the Socs and the Greasers? It’s still there. Maybe not as wide for people like me people stuck somewhere in the middle, trying to make sense of both sides. But most folks? They don’t wanna let go of their labels. Rich and poor. East side, West side. They hold onto them like shields.

But Ponyboy...he’s different now. Quieter, but not broken. I see him scribbling in that notebook of his on the porch some evenings. Like he’s trying to turn the pain into something real something that matters. And maybe that’s how healing starts. Not with fists, but with stories.

The choices those boys made Johnny running into that burning church, Dally losing himself to the grief it all carved deep lines into our town’s soul. Some of us are trying to fill those cracks with understanding. Others just pretend they’re not there.

But me? I think we’re at a crossroads. And if more people start listening to kids like Ponyboy, maybe we can finally stop seeing each other as Greasers and Socs...and just as people.

Well… a lot of things sure can happen within’ a week, can’t it? It’s been a few days after everything, it has died down, but there’s still voices going around. I really hope Pony’s okay, I know he will be, he’s a strong person. The community isn’t as violent as before, sure, there’s been a few fights here and there from time to time, but nothing too serious. I don’t know if the gap between the Greasers and the Socs will ever be filled.

I think it might though, the Socs aren’t that different from us Greasers. But maybe one day, it’ll fill. Honestly, I still don’t get why Johnny saved those kids - I mean, I do get why, but he traded his life for those kids, but I probably would’ve done that too. I also don’t think Dally deserved to die like that. It’s pretty crazy how a death of your favorite person can really do to you.

I do think that Johnny made the right call to save those kids though, I just don’t get why the adults didn’t rush in there before Johnny and Pony did. I think the group will be alright though, they can get through everything that just happened with each other. I’m also very glad Darry fixed his relationship with Pony, it’s nice not seeing Darry yell at Pony with what seemed like anger, but was covered instead of sounding worried.

I think the community will change a bit, not a whole lot, but maybe a bit, maybe just enough so that the Greasers and Socs will get along, and we’ll set our differences aside and be friends. After everything that has happened, I think we’ll all be okay, we should be okay.

Hey, it's been quiet, huh? It's me, Aaron again. I heard what happened from Cherry. She told me all about what happened and your loss. I'm sorry for your loss. I don't know what to do, I don't know how to make you feel better with just a letter, but it's been a while. I miss you I I know we have been friends for 2 weeks. However, I still remember how nice you were to other people and me, but just for that, you got bullied. I hope you can talk sometime. Still, I don't think we should since you're running away from the cops but you are in the hospital though so I'm not sure that I can visit you you're over there and I'm across the town it's going to be a long drive but I just wanted to send you a letter so at least you know someone's talking to you. I really wish I can be there but I think you like your space so when you want to read this letter you can you're wondering how I'm doing and I have just been alone, with no one, I just graduated high school so I'm looking for colleges, are you proud of me, I mean I think I am like the only greaser you new that never dropped out, it's been hard living alone since I've just been alone but at least we're still friends right. Just want to see how you're doing and say sorry for your loss. I hope you feel better soon, and again, maybe we can see each other sometime. Well, bye, see you later, bro

Sincerely,

Aaron silver

Things look tough right about now, and I can tell I know it’s not really my businessss and my sister said i shouldn’t butt in but I’m just worried about you. I’ve always seen the Greasers and the Socs fight all the time, and I can tell it's not only physical fights. I can tell you're very aware you are a Greaser and waou, but to help you mentally, maybe writing your feelings or a story down might help the situation, think of it as a way to cope or even therapy, where the pages are your therapists and you can write anything down!  I myself have done this, and it has been so much of a help! Especially because of my crazy siblings, they're a handful, I’m sure you have some experience since you have brothers. I might have gotten off topic, it happens a lot with me, but my goal is to distract and help you the best I can! You're going through a lot and you might be afraid of the future, but we can't change that, but we can do what we can in the present and not let the past haunt us! I hope this finds you well. Stay strong.

Sincerely, James. :)

I rarely talk to him, but now I had a chance to. Sadly, he wasn't in his best condition after the event. The doctor told me that his back was also broken, great minds think alike, I think. I've been catching up with him. I've heard a lot about these greasers. Sounds like a good place to eat. No, that's Greasy's. He's told me a lot about his friends, Horse, and some other kid in the hospital named Sally. That's a weird name for a boy. Horse Boy sounds like a good kid, but that Sally guy sounds like trouble. He's never talked about his parents much except how they abused him. Good for nothing kids. I oughta slap his father. I did not raise him to drink and sit on his lazy butt all day.

On Thursday, I couldn't see Johnny, poor fellow was as pale as the color pale. I just asked for a newspaper or a book to read. As a few days passed on I noticed that a huge group of boys were gathering together. I couldn't see that much through the window, but I could see half of the people were wearing black, and the other half was more like a reddish-whitish color with some other colors included. I asked the nurse for my glasses. I could see much better. Now I could see some faces and clothes. All of those faces had a cold expression. yikes, I may not know much about kids, but the differences between them were similar to the boys in the park. That's stupid. Why are all these boys fighting these days? After all, they're boys in the end. Hopefully, one day they'll come to their senses and stop fighting like a couple of babies. I couldn't call the cops, but I might as well enjoy the action.

As I was watching closely, I heard a bunch of shouting in the hall; it sounded like Johnny's friend Wally. He looked mad, he had a knife too. I have so many questions about this kid. Why does he have a knife in a hospital, and where'd he get it from? Johnny has to watch who he hangs with. Saw him join the other black coated kids after he threatened the nurse with a knife. A few minutes after that nonsense, the fancy guys chickened out. Serves them right for picking on Johnny.

The doctor then came and told me the bad news. Johnny was gonna die. Poor Johnny, I wish he had a better, longer life. I heard his parents shouting at the nurses last week. Didn't know that was Johnny's mom. Never met her. Either way, she sounded like a pain. If only he had better parents. I went to go meet the kid. He was writing on a piece of paper and then slipped it into a book after I came in. He looked skinny and paler than the color pale. I gave him a big ol' hug and he went back to sleep. Only a matter of time before he died, I didn't want to see this though, so I went back to my room and had a good think about my life. Soon, that would happen to me too. Guess I'll be seeing him soon. Then his friends barged into his room and then right back out. They must have been too late. A few days later. I read the news.

His friend Horsey and his brothers went to court. Seems they were staying together. How wonderful. I got to meet this Horsey, it seems his name was actually Ponyboy. He told me all about what things were like with Johnny and the rivalry between the "greasers" and "socks" He told me about a church they hid in. He also showed me the note Johnny had written. About some rumble. What a time to be alive. He mostly told me all this through one of his school assignments. That sounds like an A+ to me. I agree with Johnny and Ponyboy, they shouldn't end up like the greasers or the socks. They should just live a normal life without any of that fighting or killing stuff. I don't even know why there are any gangs. Somebody needs to straighten them out. Okay I'm out, or as the cool kids say it, uh, beef out. Wait no, peace out.

I have returned, Levi.

Today, the Doctors Diagnosed me with diabetes, but I am fine. I thought this was gonna be blood and dilly dally, especially after The Manslaughter that happened. But guess what, the same person who I thought was good, performed a miracle. Johnny, yes, that one, saved a Kid from a burning building.

August 11, 1966....

....

....

One Time, while taking my insulin, I saw something strange from one side of the window. I saw Johnny with his friends, who brought him out. I knew it was only a matter of time until he died. I watched my clock on my wall, and it kept on ticking... Ticking like a clock... Was I going crazy?...

September 25, 1966

I was lucky enough to see the court case with my own eyes. Johnny and his friend "Horsey" went to court. They told me everything, yes, I met them. They told me they should live normally... like anyone else... honestly, I agree with them. This should be for the best... for the best...

October 17, 1966 (This is a fanmade part, this wont be added to the grading, i just like to add suspense for sequels :) )

I stared out the window...

Then a figure was next to me...

I was startled, he said he was from the OFN (Organization of Free Nations).

He told me he was coming with me.

I walked with him.

He opened a portal to a new world.

I woke up in the USA, same as normal... but... Johnny was not a gang member, he was normal. I checked the map, it changed... The USA mostly dominated the maps, but so did the Germans, and the Japenese. Russia was fractured. This was a world where not only the Socs and Greasers would not exist... its where we lost...

I looked at the clock for the last time... and succumbed to insanity.

To be Continued....

This means it's about identity, belonging, and how violence affects youth. Jamie shows the struggles of growing up in a divided community and highlights the need for empathy and understanding.

 Dear Ponyboy,

 I've been thinking a lot about you and Johnny since I heard what happened in that church. Then what you wrote about staying gold I don't know if this letter will mean anything to you but I hope it does I just wanted to say I think Johnny was right you are gold there's something in you most people in this town have lost the way you see Beauty in the world even with everything going on. I know things are rough and it's not fair  the way the world treats you or how quick people are to judge the greasers without knowing who you are but please don't lose that part of you that still believes in sunsets and poetry I think Johnny wanted you to remember there's more to life than just surviving you've got a good heart and maybe that's what this world needs more of so here's my advice: don't try to be tough because everyone expects you to be be smart be kind keep writing let Johnny's words stay with you and let them guide you if you can hold on to the good maybe just maybe you'll find a way out of this and into something better

 Stay gold, Ponyboy.

- Marcy 

Then there was this flash - metal catching the streetlight - and everything went still, like the whole world was holding its breath. Bob Sheldon hit the ground with a thump.

The Socs backed off, yelling and cussing. Ponyboy was hacking and coughing, water spilling out of his lungs. And Johnny just stood there, staring at what he had done. I wanted to run to them, grab them both, and drag them home, but I knew even then - it was too late. Way too late.

Nothing was ever gonna be the same after this.

I know things feel like they're falling apart right now, but I need you to hear me out. You and Johnny did what you thought you had to, and I get that. But running away isn't going to fix anything especially not in the long run. The law might not see it the way we do, but you're not a criminal, Pony, and neither is Johnny. I think the best thing you can do now is come home and face this - not just for yourself, but for all of us who care about you.

I won't lie, its going to be hard. But you're not alone. Me and Darry, we're right here, and we always will be. I believe in you, Ponyboy. You've always had more heart and brains than most guys twice your age, and if you keep that, you'll come out stronger.

Love,

Soda

After everything - Johnny dying, Dally blowing himself out like that, and Pony barely hanging on - it's like the whole town got quieter, heavier. Even the Socs don't drive around looking for fights like they used to. Maybe because they're scared, or maybe they finally figured it don't make them tuff. I don't know. All I know is, we lost too much, and nobody really won.