The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton is a timeless classic that has enthralled readers for decades. One of the most memorable characters in the novel is none other than Two-Bit Mathews. Known for his quick wit, lovable charm, and a knack for spewing out hilarious and thought-provoking quotes, Two-Bit instantly captures the hearts of readers.
Two-Bit, whose real name is Keith, is a wise-cracking, fun-loving member of the Greasers gang. Despite his carefree and mischievous nature, Two-Bit is incredibly loyal to his friends and has a deep sense of justice. Throughout the novel, he expresses his unique perspective on life through his memorable quotes, often serving as a source of comic relief in tense situations.
One of Two-Bit’s most famous quotes is, “
Sixteen years on the streets and you can learn a lot. But alla the wrong things, not the things you wanna learn.” This quote perfectly encapsulates Two-Bit’s character and the harsh reality of his life. It emphasizes the sad truth that growing up in a tough environment can teach individuals valuable lessons, but not necessarily the ones they need to succeed in life. It also touches upon the theme of the novel, which explores the impact of social class and environment on individuals’ lives.
Another iconic quote by Two-Bit is, “
If I had any, I’d be the richest guy in the world.” This humorous line showcases Two-Bit’s laid-back personality and his ability to find joy in even the bleakest of circumstances. Despite facing hardships, he maintains a positive outlook by finding humor in his lack of material wealth. This sentiment highlights the notion that true riches come from personal relationships and experiences, rather than material possessions.
Two-Bit also provides poignant insights into the nature of violence and its repercussions, further showcasing his depth as a character. He explains, “
I’m for violence if it leads to a solution. I don’t go for seeing innocent people get hurt if it can be helped.” This quote illustrates Two-Bit’s complex understanding of violence. While he acknowledges that it can sometimes be necessary, he also recognizes the harm it can cause. Here, he reveals his unwavering loyalty to his friends while demonstrating his aversion to causing harm to others.
In addition to his comedic and profound quotes, Two-Bit’s love for his friends is exemplified in his declaration, “
Shoot, my old man and Darry and Soda pop’ll all kill me if I get picked up again.” This statement reflects the strong bond between the Greasers and Two-Bit’s fear of disappointing those he cares about. It demonstrates his awareness of his actions’ consequences and his desire to avoid causing pain to his loved ones.
Two-Bit Mathews is undeniably a fascinating character in The Outsiders. His words of wisdom, humor, and loyalty make him a beloved and memorable part of the novel. Through his quotes, he adds depth and dimension to the story, providing insights into the harsh realities of life and the importance of friendship. Two-Bit remains a standout character, reminding readers of the importance of finding joy in simple things and staying true to oneself, even in the face of adversity.