When it says that Pony Boy went down into a peaceful darkness what is happening to him?

When Ponyboy goes down into a "peaceful darkness," it symbolizes his retreat into unconsciousness or a state of escape from his painful reality. This moment likely occurs as he grApples with the trauma and emotional turmoil resulting from the violent events he has experienced. The darkness represents a temporary respite from his struggles, highlighting his vulnerability and the weight of his circumstances.