A Deconstructionist Perspective of S. E. Hintons The Outsiders Essay

A Deconstructionist Perspective of S. E. Hintons The Outsiders The unseen layers present in S. E. Hintons The Outsiders make it possible for the proofreader to develop differing interpretations of the novel. The ambiguity of the text is acknowledge within the deconstructionist access code to literature. Deconstruction allows the reader to focus on particular elements in the text that divulge the underlying themes. In snap on two key scenes in The Outsiders, deconstruction explains how Hintons use of these scenes gives the reader insight into two opposing themes within the text. The two scenes consist of Ponyboys and Johnnys oppositeness with the Socs and as well when Ponyboy and Johnny save the children in the burning church (54-57 91-93). In these two scenes, Hinton manipulates the characters reactions to illustrate two divergent readings of the text. Critics have consistently argued whether Hinton think the text to be read as a realistic study of teenage life, or a t ext that embodies the idealism of youth. I believe the answer lies within both interpretations, for the boys must face the reality of their actions and also individually come to terms with what or whom they consider worth end for. In interpreting the text as a realistic greenback of teenage life, it is evident that the author deals with the real issues that youth face, such as violence and class conflict. The first key scene exemplifies these impending dangers with the boys reactions to organism surrounded by the Socs in the park. The narrator, Ponyboy, describes Johnny as white as a ghost and his eyes were wild-looking (54). Ponyboy implicates Johnnys earlier encounter with the Socs as the grounds of Johnnys overwhelming fear. Ponyboy ... ... matter of an instant. In analyzing two key scenes from The Outsiders, the text belies the conflicting themes of the reality of teenage life and the idealism of youth. In focusing on these scenes, the reader observes how H inton dismantles her own text with her use of oppositions in the reactions of Ponyboy and Johnny. Although two tell themes are represented, it is not necessary to choose between them. With the critical approach of deconstruction, the reader recognizes the signifi massce of opposition within the text. I believe this concurrent understanding of both discourses is the only way a reader can truly appreciate the depth of Hintons work, for the greatest enlightenment stems from the realization that the unfeigned message lies within the many thematic shades of gray. Works Cited Hinton, S. E. The Outsiders. brisk York Penguin, 1995.