Exploring the Fascinating Hobbies and Interests of Johnny Cade
Johnny Cade was one of the most beloved characters in S.E. Hinton’s novel, The Outsiders. Although he lived a difficult life, with tough family circumstances and ties to gang activity, Johnny had a number of compelling hobbies and interests that made him unique. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the things that made Johnny Cade stand out as a character and explore how his hobbies gave him a sense of purpose and meaning.
Secretly Writing Poetry
One of the most surprising details about Johnny Cade is that he was a secret poet. Despite his tough exterior and association with a gang, Johnny had a sensitive side that he expressed through writing. He shared his poetry with only a few people, including his best friend Ponyboy and fellow gang member Dallas. Through his writing, Johnny was able to explore his thoughts and feelings in a way that he couldn’t do in everyday life. His poems gave him a sense of freedom and allowed him to express his vulnerability in a way that he couldn’t do otherwise.
Gardening as a Source of Peace
Johnny was also interested in gardening, a hobby which contrasted sharply with the violence and aggression that he dealt with on a daily basis. In The Outsiders, Johnny spends time tending to the small garden that he and Ponyboy create in an abandoned lot. Gardening gives Johnny a sense of peace and calm that he can’t find anywhere else. It also allows him to connect with nature and appreciate the beauty of the world around him.
Collecting Glass Animals
Another of Johnny’s hobbies was collecting glass animals. He takes pride in his collection, and even refers to the animals as his “only pride and joy.” Although he doesn’t talk about it much with others, his collection is something that gives him pleasure and makes him happy. Johnny’s enthusiasm for his glass animals is a reminder that even in difficult circumstances, there can be moments of joy and beauty to be found.
A Deep Appreciation for Sunsets
Finally, one of Johnny’s most defining characteristics is his love for sunsets. He watches them every day and takes comfort in their beauty. For Johnny, sunsets are a reminder that there is still beauty and goodness in the world, even when things seem bleak. Sunsets also give him hope for a better future. He shares this appreciation for sunsets with Ponyboy, and the two of them often talk about their shared admiration for the natural beauty.
Conclusion
Johnny Cade might be a fictional character, but his interests and hobbies serve as a reminder that even in the most difficult circumstances, there can be moments of beauty and joy to be found. Through his love for poetry, gardening, collecting, and sunsets, Johnny was able to find a sense of purpose and meaning in his life. His hobbies also helped him to connect with others and express his feelings in a unique and meaningful way. By exploring the fascinating hobbies and interests of Johnny Cade, we can learn valuable lessons about finding joy and meaning in our own lives.
