Darrel is the eldest of the Curtis brothers and assumes a parental role for his younger siblings, Ponyboy and Sodapop. He is responsible for providing for the family and ensuring their well-being. The responsibility and pressure of being the head of the household may limit his ability to pursue his own educational and career aspirations.
Darrel's socio-economic background further complicates his dream. The Curtis brothers are from the "wrong side" of town and face discrimination and prejudices from the more affluent and powerful members of society. Darrel's limited opportunities due to his social class make it difficult for him to achieve his ambitions fully.
Moreover, Darrel is dealing with the emotional trauma and guilt from a tragic event that occurred in the past. He becomes entangled in a life-altering situation that makes it challenging for him to focus on his personal dreams. This emotional burden hinders his ability to make progress toward his goals.
In summary, Darrel's dream of becoming a successful entrepreneur seems unattainable due to his responsibilities as a caretaker for his siblings, his socio-economic background, and the emotional baggage from a past event. These obstacles create barriers that prevent him from pursuing his aspirations and achieving his full potential.