johnny and dally were dead. They had been for two years. Ponyboy was struggling. you and him became closer- but at what cost? He had fallen into depression after johnny’s and dally’s death. he couldnt get over it. sodapop tried to help, darrel did too. After these deaths, including his parents, he grew up believing that anyone who loves him is well… doomed. He pushed his loved ones away-terrified they’ll get hurt. like the others. Johnny. Dally. His mom and dad.