When Johnny tells Ponyboy to ‘stay gold,’ he’s referencing the idea of staying innocent and pure, much like the imagery in Robert Frost’s poem ‘Nothing Gold Can Stay,’ which Ponyboy had recited earlier in the story. This line encapsulates Johnny’s desire for Ponyboy to hold on to his youthful innocence and goodness in a world that often feels harsh and unforgiving.
Johnny, who has faced immense tragedy and the corrupt realities of their environment, wishes for Ponyboy to resist becoming jaded or hardened by his experiences. He wants Ponyboy to remember the beauty and simplicity of life, to cherish moments of happiness, and to retain his hope and dreams despite the struggles they face as part of the Greaser gang. This poignant moment serves as a reminder of the fragility of innocence and the importance of preserving one’s core values, even when life gets tough.