Ponyboy has felt detached and disconnected from his older brother since their parents' death. Darry is no longer the older brother who is worshipped and adored..... he is the father, mother, and caregiver. The change in their relationship confused Ponyboy, and even angered him. He felt disconnected from Darry, and he felt as if nothing he could do would ever make him happy. The hug in the hospital erased those fears.... they were a family again, and Ponyboy was finally home...... embraced in the protective loving arms of family.
