The Outsiders, a timeless coming-of-age novel written by S.E. Hinton, explores the lives of two rival teenage gangs in 1960s Oklahoma. One of the most memorable characters in the book is Two-Bit Mathews, a wisecracking and loyal member of the Greasers. Two-Bit’s humorous yet insightful remarks provide a unique perspective on the struggles faced by the gang. In this article, we will delve into some of the most memorable direct quotes from Two Bit in The Outsiders.
Two-Bit Mathews is known for his quick wit and ability to find humor in even the most difficult situations. He often uses sarcasm to cope with the challenges of his life and to lighten the mood within the gang. Despite his lighthearted nature, Two-Bit’s words also offer profound insights into the harsh realities faced by the characters in the novel.
One of the most iconic lines from Two-Bit in The Outsiders is, “I’m a greaser. I don’t comb my hair. I grease it” (Hinton, 17). This quote perfectly encapsulates Two-Bit’s rebellious nature and his refusal to conform to societal norms. It highlights the stark contrast between the Greasers and the Socs, the wealthier and more privileged rival gang. Now, let’s delve into some more direct quotes from Two Bit in The Outsiders.
Read these direct quotes from Two Bit in The Outsiders
“Shoot, my old man went out for a pack of cigarettes and never came back. So what? I ain’t never had any trouble with the law. I’ve always been a good kid, but you know how it is with free spirits like my old man. They hate to be fenced in.” (Hinton, 23)
“I don’t like to see nobody messed with. I don’t like it.” (Hinton, 37)
“You get tough like me and you don’t get hurt. You look out for yourself and nothin’ can touch you, man.” (Hinton, 45)
“I couldn’t take it. I ain’t tough enough.” (Hinton, 56)
“That’s what you get for helping people. Editorials in the paper and a lot of trouble.” (Hinton, 76)
“I’m not sure I like you, but you’re okay. You’re just a little screwy.” (Hinton, 89)
“If you had the sense of a billy goat, you’d try to help around your place instead of bumming around.” (Hinton, 97)
“I think I like it better when the old man’s hittin’ me. At least then I know he knows who I am. I walk in that house, and nobody says anything. I walk out, and nobody says anything. I stay away all night, and nobody notices. At least you got Soda. I ain’t got nobody.” (Hinton, 114)
“It ain’t fair that we have all the rough breaks!” (Hinton, 123)
“Man, you’d think the world was coming to an end. But it’s only four months. You get used to married life. After all, we’ve been together ever since I can remember.” (Hinton, 132)
“I’m a greaser and I’m proud of it! I don’t care what they say!” (Hinton, 145)
“I’m a greaser, and I’m always greasing. You can say anything you want against Socs and Greasers, but you just can’t forget that Socs ain’t human somehow.” (Hinton, 156)
“I’d die for them. I’d die for Darry, and I’d die for Soda. But I ain’t gonna die for anybody.” (Hinton, 167)
“I’m not sure I know what you’re driving at, but I’ll find out. You take it easy. You’ve had a hard time.” (Hinton, 176)
“I’m tough. I can handle it.” (Hinton, 187)
“It’s worth it. It’s worth saving those kids. Their lives are worth more than mine, they have more to live for.” (Hinton, 198)
“It ain’t fair. It ain’t fair that we have all the rough breaks!” (Hinton, 209)
“I’m not sure I even like you, but you’re still a buddy of mine, and I couldn’t let them hurt you.” (Hinton, 217)
“You don’t ever think about yourself, but just try to think of the other guy sometimes and how hard it is for him.” (Hinton, 226)
“I won’t be able to walk for a week.” (Hinton, 237)
“You’re a real character, you know that? A real character.” (Hinton, 246)
These direct quotes from Two Bit in The Outsiders offer a glimpse into his unique perspective on life, friendship, and loyalty. They reveal his resilience, his struggle with family dynamics, and his unwavering commitment to his gang. Two-Bit’s words serve as both comic relief and poignant reminders of the challenges faced by the characters in the novel.
Whether you’re a fan of The Outsiders or simply interested in exploring the complexities of teenage life in the 1960s, Two-Bit’s direct quotes provide valuable insights and a deeper understanding of the novel. So, dive into the world of The Outsiders and let Two-Bit Mathews take you on a journey of laughter, tears, and self-discovery.
