Dally is tough and he wants pony boy to be the same and they like johnny because he is soft and nice. I think he believes his own advice because he is tough too
Because he wouldn't do something dumb like save the boys. ;
Dally wants Ponyboy to be tough like him to survive their harsh reality, fearing that kindness will lead to vulnerability. Although he advises toughness, Dally's care for Johnny suggests he struggles internally with this belief. His character illustrates the complexity of tough versus tender in their environment.
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