Two-Bit thinks Ponyboy's hardening up when a couple of Socs want to pick a fight with them and Pony smashes the butt of a glass bottle and threatens them with it. They drive away and Pony tells Two-Bit that he would use the bottle too. Two-Bit, like most of the characters, doesn't want Pony to change and he want's Pony to stay in school and be the same person.
Ponyboy believes that being tough allows him to protect himself and stand up to bullies. He sees it as a way to assert his independence and strength in a challenging environment.
Ponyboy pretends to be proud of Johnny killing Bob because it makes him look tough, an essential quality of a greaser. I hope my answer helped you. -Del Klassen -ihunt4ever
because they would think he was soft and not tough like they want him to be
He says that his hair makes him look tough and identifies him as a greaser.
He is the strong one in the house so he has to act tough
well you see you ask her out
Ponyboy realizes that Darry loves him after the two have a heated argument and Darry breaks down in tears, showing his deep concern and love for his younger brother. This moment helps Ponyboy see past Darry's tough exterior and understand the sacrifices he makes to care for him and keep their family together.
Ponyboy convinced Two-Bit that he would never get tough when he expressed his deep appreciation for the beauty of the world around him, particularly his love for sunsets and literature. His sensitivity and introspective nature stood in stark contrast to the tough persona expected of a Greaser. This emotional depth highlighted Ponyboy's gentleness, making it clear to Two-Bit that he would always retain his softer side, regardless of the harsh realities of their environment.
To get tough like him and nothing can hurt him or touch him.
Dallas got mad at Ponyboy because he felt that Ponyboy was being too soft and not tough enough in a harsh world. Dally, who had a hardened exterior from his own experiences, was frustrated that Ponyboy didn't understand the need to be tough for survival. This confrontation stemmed from Dally's desire to protect Ponyboy by pushing him to toughen up, but it manifested in aggression rather than guidance.
Ponyboy finally understands Darryl when he realizes that Darry's tough love stems from a deep concern for his well-being and future. Darry, burdened with the responsibility of caring for his younger brothers after their parents' death, pushes Ponyboy to excel and stay out of trouble. This understanding allows Ponyboy to see that Darry's actions, though sometimes harsh, are motivated by love and a desire to protect their family. Ultimately, this realization strengthens their bond and helps Ponyboy appreciate the sacrifices Darry makes for them.
When Ponyboy sees Darry at the hospital, he realizes that Darry genuinely cares about him and is deeply affected by the events that have unfolded. He understands that Darry's tough exterior is driven by love and concern, rather than mere discipline. This moment helps Ponyboy appreciate the sacrifices Darry makes as an older brother and strengthens their bond. Overall, Ponyboy discovers that Darry's actions stem from a place of love and responsibility.