An Unforgettable Character from ‘The Outsiders’: Steve Randle

While many readers find themselves connected to various characters in S. E. Hinton's iconic novel, The Outsiders, Steve Randle stands out as one of the most intriguing yet enigmatic figures. Unlike other characters who leave an indelible mark on the story, Steve Randle seems almost irrelevant, eliciting a mix of curiosity and frustration. This essay delves into the character of Steve Randle, exploring his place within the narrative and the reasons behind his rather elusive role.

Character Profile and Background

Steve Randle, one of the Greasers—gang members—to which Ponyboy Curtis belongs, is a character whose enigmatic presence stands in stark contrast to the fleshed-out roles of his peers. His inclusion in the group, though essential for the script, often feels gratuitous, making him a dissatisfying element in the story. Hinton introduces him in a way that almost suggests he is an afterthought, leading to questions about the character's relevance within the narrative. Steve's best friend, Soda Pop, works at the gas station with him, but their bond seems much less significant than the connections between other characters in the novel.

The Lack of Agency and Influence

Unlike other Greasers such as Dally, Two-Bit, and Johnny, Steve Randle is seldom the center of pivotal moments in The Outsiders. One encounters Steve Randle in brief interactions that add little to the plot or the emotional development of the story. He does not make significant decisions, nor does he influence the major actions of other characters. Steve is often present but rarely active, which is a striking narrative choice by Hinton.

The question arises: If Steve Randle's presence is so negligible, why include him as a character at all? This brings to mind the possibility that Ponyboy, the narrator, may have a personal bias against Steve. This perspective opens up the possibility that Hinton might have created Steve Randle to fulfill a numerical quota for the gang, rather than to offer depth to the narrative. In a seven-member gang, Steve Randle's character could be seen as a mandatory addition, much like a seventh color in a palette that is already rich with hues.

Analysis of Steve's Relationship with Other Characters

Steve Randle's relationship with Soda Pop, another Greaser, is relatively weak. Unlike the closer bonds between Dally and Johnny, or Two-Bit and Ponyboy, Steve and Soda share little in terms of personal dynamics or emotional connection. Soda and Steve work at the soda shop, but this connection is superficial. Steve's dislike for Ponyboy is mentioned, but it remains unexplained and unexplored. The reader is left with more questions than answers regarding Steve's character, leaving his motivations and actions enigmatic.

In contrast, the strong ties between the main characters and their friends are central to the narrative. Ponyboy's bond with his brothers and his friends like Johnny and Dally is strong and pivotal. This makes Steve's significantly weaker connection to the other characters more conspicuous. His absence or insubstantial presence in critical moments of the story further emphasizes the gap in his role. Steve seems to be a placeholder, an extension of the gang structure rather than a fully developed individual with depth and significance.

Conclusion

The character of Steve Randle in The Outsiders remains a topic of discussion and curiosity for readers. His inclusion stands as a testament to S. E. Hinton's attention to narrative structure, possibly to ensure a symmetrical representation of her characters. However, his lack of impact and agency makes him one of the less memorable figures in the novel. Whether intended or not, Steve Randle remains a character that paradoxically stands out for his insignificance, leaving readers with more questions than answers about his existence in the world of the Greasers.

Therefore, Steve Randle remains an intriguing and somewhat frustrating character from The Outsiders. His role in the story, while essential for completeness, lingers as a testament to Hinton's narrative choices and the multifaceted nature of her characters.