Draft:That Was Then... This Is Now

That Was Then... This Is Now" is a novel written by S.E. Hinton which was published in 1971. The novel is a coming-of-age story about two teenage boys, Bryon Douglas and Mark Jennings, who are best friends and brothers in all but name. The story is set in the 1960s in a tough, working-class neighborhood in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and explores themes of loyalty, friendship, and growing up in a changing world.

At the beginning of the novel, Bryon and Mark are inseparable. They do everything together and have a reputation as two of the toughest kids in their neighborhood. Bryon is the narrator of the story, and he describes Mark as his "big brother," even though the two boys are not related. Bryon's mother, who is a caring and compassionate figure, has taken Mark in after his parents abandoned him.

Despite their tough exterior, Bryon and Mark are not just a couple of hoodlums. They have a code of honor and a sense of loyalty that extends beyond their friendship. They are respected by the other kids in their neighborhood, and they have a reputation for fairness and honesty.

But when Bryon's mother takes in a troubled foster child named Cathy Carlson, things begin to change. Bryon is immediately attracted to Cathy, and the two start dating. Mark, on the other hand, becomes increasingly violent and unpredictable. He starts to hang out with a dangerous group of kids who are involved in drugs and crime.

As the boys grow apart, Bryon begins to question his loyalty to Mark and the life they've been living. He starts to see that the world is changing and that he needs to change too if he wants to survive. He starts to realize that there are more important things in life than just being tough and street-smart.

Throughout the novel, Hinton explores the complex relationship between Bryon and Mark. Despite their differences, the boys are fiercely loyal to each other, and their bond is tested as they navigate the challenges of adolescence. Mark is a tragic figure, a victim of circumstances beyond his control. He is unable to adapt to the changing world around him, and his violent behavior ultimately leads to his downfall.

Hinton also examines the role of family and community in shaping the lives of young people. Bryon's mother, for example, is a strong and compassionate figure who provides a stable home for her son and his friends, even as she struggles with her problems. The other kids in the neighborhood are also important characters, and their interactions with Bryon and Mark provide insight into the larger social and cultural context of the novel.

"That Was Then... This Is Now" also captures the social and political upheaval of the 1960s. The novel takes place against a backdrop of civil rights protests, anti-war demonstrations, and a growing sense of disillusionment with authority. Hinton's characters are acutely aware of these changes, and their experiences reflect the larger cultural shifts of the era.

The novel was well-received upon its publication and has since become a classic of young adult literature. It has been praised for its vivid characters, powerful themes, and gripping plot. At its core, "That Was Then... This Is Now" is a story about the difficult transition from adolescence to adulthood and the choices that young people must make as they navigate a complex and often hostile world. It remains a compelling read for young adults and adults alike and a powerful reminder of the challenges and opportunities of youth.

References

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