What are the main ideas in the book the outsiders chapter 2

This chapter introduces the importance of perspective. The lament that life isn't fair runs throughout this chapter, but now a Soc also brings it forth. Cherry Valance represents the perfect life to Ponyboy. She is a good-looking cheerleader, but she states that the Socs have troubles, too. Her life appears perfect to an outsider looking in, but that apparently is not the case.

Explanation:

During Chapter 2, Pony's character is not able to see Cherry's point of view that the Socs have their own troubles. But the last sentence of the chapter, "I know better now," not only foreshadows upcoming events, but also shows Ponyboy's own personal growth. Later, he develops a better understanding of the Socs and changes his own perspective. With hindsight, in the retelling of this story, he is able to see the Socs in a different light: "I really couldn't see what Socs would have to sweat about — good grades, good cars, good girls, madras and Mustangs and Corvairs." This sentence was written in the past tense, "really couldn't see," with an implied correction of understanding. This notes a change in Ponyboy's perspective.