Answer:
Chapter 4 contains one of the novel's primary climaxes, the decisive turning point to which many of the preceding chapters' foreshadowing alludes. When he kills Bob, Johnny loses the look of a wild animal caught in a trap and instead he "looked as cool as Darry ever had." By killing Bob, Johnny takes control of his life in the only way that he thinks is possible. This single action starts a series of events that leads Ponyboy on a path of self-examination, characterized by his statement, "There are things worse than being a greaser."
Ponyboy blames Darry for starting this string of events just as many children — and adults — blame their parents for all of their misfortunes. As a result of frustration and fear for Pony's safety, Darry had slapped him when he returned home well after curfew. This slap did make Pony run away, thus in Ponyboy's mind starting this whole nightmare: "I bet Darry's sorry he ever hit me."
When Johnny and Ponyboy turn to Dally for help, Dally reacts to Ponyboy the same way that Darry did, questioning Ponyboy's common sense. It is ironic that as Pony turns his back on Darry, another person steps in to question his judgment, and thereby prompts Pony to see Dally's perspective, and maybe Darry's, of himself.
The belief that one's parents are responsible for their children's misfortunes does not enter into Johnny's rationale for his actions. Johnny's abusive parents could easily have been blamed for their son murdering another person, but that thought doesn't occur to Johnny. His thoughts are self-motivated. Recall that in the previous chapter, Johnny said, "I can't take much more." This quote highlights Johnny's taking responsibility for his own actions. He doesn't blame his parents for making him live on the street, perhaps placing him in situations where trouble could occur. He accepts his fate, and decides to change it. This contrasts with Ponyboy not acknowledging that his own irresponsibility may have led to this situation.
The fantasy of life in the country hits Pony square in the face as he and Johnny hop off the freight train. The boys' appearance contrasts sharply with the natural beauty around them: "The dawn was coming. It was lightening the sky in the east and a ray of gold touched the hills. The clouds were pink and meadow larks were singing." They realize that their much struggled for "look," a style that guaranteed them the ability to fit in, now works against them. Johnny, with his black T-shirt, blue jeans, and greased long hair, and Pony, with his worn jeans and Dally's leather jacket, realize that "They'll know we're hoods the minute they see us." Both boys know they need to shed that applied appearance to match the culture around them because once again they are outsiders.
