When I was young, all the books were about a Mary Jane and the football player and the prom and ending up with the quiet guy and making your mom happy.

This quote by S. E. Hinton, an American author best known for her novel The Outsiders, reflects on the traditional, idealized narratives often found in literature, particularly those targeted at young readers. The mention of "a Mary Jane," "the football player," and "the prom" evokes the classic tropes of teenage life that center around societal expectations, romance, and achievement. These stories are often about fitting into a mold that is widely accepted and celebrated, with a clear path toward a "happy ending."

The phrase "ending up with the quiet guy and making your mom happy" highlights the conventional roles and goals typically presented in mainstream narratives. It reflects the societal pressure to conform, to follow a set path that pleases others, particularly family. In this case, the "quiet guy" represents a safe, conventional choice, which contrasts with more complex or unconventional relationships. Hinton’s words suggest a critique of these idealized expectations that often limit the scope of individual experiences.

By saying "When I was young," Hinton connects this sentiment to her own coming-of-age, pointing out that these stories were once the norm for her generation. The statement also hints at the generational differences in the way stories and narratives shape youth identity and self-discovery. Hinton’s work often challenges such conventions, as seen in The Outsiders, where characters like Ponyboy and Johnny defy typical expectations.

Ultimately, the quote reflects Hinton’s awareness of the narrow scope of traditional narratives, pointing out how these stories fail to capture the complexity of real life. Hinton’s novels often explore themes of social class, identity, and rebellion, encouraging readers to question societal norms and to find their own path instead of following the standard storylines.