The Outsiders, written in the mid 1960s, makes the reader wonder how, if at all, the story would be different if it were told today. The novel includes the usual references that date a story, generally related to pop culture — for example, models of cars, movies, and music — but those are incidentals, and do not affect the narrative or the outcome.
The first thing to consider is the way in which the story is told. If the story were written today, the author probably would continue to use the first-person narrative, because it is a very effective tool for allowing the reader inside the storyteller's mind. The language would be the same, but it would undoubtedly be heavily laced with expletives. The use of swear words, especially by teenagers, is a show of power and a part of everyday life today. The tolerance level for swearing is at a much higher level than it was in the 1960s; current movies and music demonstrate that shift.
Many of the issues that adolescents in the novel face are still very prevalent today. Teenage suicide, pregnancy, smoking, drinking, and the importance of staying in school are still areas of concern for teens. Perhaps the only area that is missing is illegal drug use. Today, undoubtedly, at least one gang member would be using an illegal drug.
