Before Johnny dies, he says to Ponyboy "stay gold". Read the poem below and explain what Johnny means when he says this to Ponyboy?
"Nature's first green is gold,
Her hardest hue to hold.
Her early leaf's a flower;
But only so an hour.
Then leaf subsides to leaf.
So Eden sank to grief,
So dawn goes down to day.
Nothing gold can stay."
a) Johnny advises Ponyboy to cherish the fleeting moments of beauty and innocence, as they are transient and fragile.
b) Johnny encourages Ponyboy to pursue wealth and material possessions, emphasizing the impermanence of materialistic pursuits.
c) Johnny urges Ponyboy to prioritize worldly achievements and success, highlighting the temporary nature of human accomplishments.
d) Johnny warns Ponyboy about the dangers of trusting others, emphasizing the need for self-preservation and caution in relationships.