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What does whiskey and English leather in the book outsiders mean?

The phrase "whiskey and English leather" is a sensory image that represents the masculine and rugged aura of the Greasers in S.E. Hinton's novel *The Outsiders*. Here's a breakdown:

* Whiskey: Whiskey, especially in the 1960s, was seen as a drink for tough guys. It symbolized rebellion, independence, and a disregard for societal norms – all traits that the Greasers, particularly Darrel "Darry" Curtis, embodied.

* English Leather: This was a popular men's aftershave in the 1960s known for its strong, masculine scent. It added to the image of the Greasers as being tough, rebellious, and confident.

The combination of whiskey and English leather paints a picture of the Greasers' physical presence – the rough edges, the rebellious spirit, and the underlying vulnerability that they try to mask. It's a fragrance of masculinity that contrasts with the more polished image of the Socs, their antagonists.

It's important to remember that the novel is narrated by Ponyboy Curtis, a young Greaser, and his perspective colors the image. This description reveals Ponyboy's admiration for the Greasers and their sense of independence.

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