that was then this is now summary

3 min read 16-04-2025

That Was Then, This Is Now: A Summary and Exploration

That Was Then, This Is Now, S.E. Hinton's powerful coming-of-age novel, explores the complex themes of friendship, loyalty, and the transition from adolescence to adulthood. The story follows the turbulent lives of two teenage boys, Mark and Bryon, navigating the treacherous landscape of societal pressures and personal growth in 1960s Oklahoma. This summary will delve into the key plot points, characters, and thematic elements that make this novel a lasting exploration of youth and identity.

The Core Narrative: Friendship Under Pressure

The novel centers on the intense and evolving friendship between Bryon and Mark. Their bond is tested repeatedly throughout the narrative. Mark, a troubled youth prone to violence and reckless behavior, increasingly relies on Bryon for support and guidance. Bryon, initially the more responsible of the two, struggles to manage Mark's destructive choices and the consequences that follow. Their relationship forms the emotional core of the story.

Key Characters and Their Transformations:

Bryon: The narrator, Bryon, begins as a relatively stable teenager but undergoes significant change throughout the story. He grapples with his loyalty to Mark, his evolving understanding of social injustice, and the complexities of adult responsibilities.
Mark: Mark's volatility and impulsiveness drive much of the plot. He represents the darker side of adolescence, marked by rebellion, violence, and a struggle to find his place in the world.
Ponyboy Curtis (from The Outsiders): While not a central character in That Was Then, This Is Now, Ponyboy's presence serves as a reminder of Bryon's past and the lingering effects of their previous experiences. His appearance highlights the enduring impact of friendship and the challenges of maintaining those connections over time. His inclusion demonstrates Hinton's skill in weaving interconnected narratives.
Cathy: Cathy represents a shift in Bryon's life, introducing him to a more mature and stable relationship. Her role helps illuminate Bryon's transition from adolescence to the complexities of adulthood.

Exploring Key Themes:

Loyalty and Betrayal: The central theme revolves around the fluctuating nature of loyalty between Bryon and Mark. Their friendship is tested by Mark's actions and Bryon's internal conflicts. The novel explores the difficulties of maintaining loyalty when faced with moral dilemmas and personal growth.
Coming-of-Age: That Was Then, This Is Now is a classic coming-of-age story, illustrating the challenges of navigating adolescence, forming identity, and confronting the realities of adulthood. The characters experience significant personal growth, often through difficult and painful experiences.
Violence and Social Injustice: The novel doesn't shy away from portraying the realities of violence and social injustice within the community. This underscores the complexities faced by young people navigating a world grappling with societal inequalities.
The Changing Landscape of Friendship: The narrative illustrates how friendships evolve and transform throughout the changing stages of life. The challenges that Bryon and Mark face in maintaining their bond reveal the fragile nature of close relationships and the difficulty of navigating growth and change within them.

Climax and Resolution:

The novel's climax involves a series of events that force Bryon to confront the consequences of Mark's actions and his own complicity. This leads to a significant turning point in their relationship and a profound shift in Bryon's understanding of himself and the world around him. The resolution offers no easy answers, but rather a nuanced portrayal of the complexities of life and friendship.

Lasting Impact:

That Was Then, This Is Now remains a significant work of young adult literature due to its honest and unflinching portrayal of teenage life. Hinton’s ability to capture the emotional intensity and moral ambiguity of adolescence continues to resonate with readers, making it a timeless exploration of identity and friendship. The novel prompts readers to consider the complexities of loyalty, the challenges of growth, and the enduring power of human connection.