1. Family is important in Chapter 8 when the group visits Dally and Johnny. They look towards Ponyboy and Two-Bit for comfort as they are sad to find they cannot take part in the rumble. Johnny, especially, having had suicidal thoughts was now wishing to live for a longer time. When Ponyboy and Two-Bit visit Cherry Valance, she helps them by informing them of the fact that the socs will be following the rules: no weapons.
2. The sunset in chapter 8 symbolizes common humanity. Cherry and Ponyboy, regardless of their gangs, both enjoy the sunset together. They find common ground. The switch blade (the knife, not sure exactly which one) represents Dally's hunger for fighting, as he chose to find comfort in a knife.
