First Thoughts on *The Road*

I am intrigued by the fact that the man and his son still have hope through their difficult journey. While the mother was suffocating from the emptiness around them and subsequently killed herself, the man and his son were able to walk away from her death in hopes that they will reach a safe haven in the south. I don’t believe that either of the main characters is afraid of death. The father’s sole reason for living is his son, and the boy has already mentioned that he wants to be where his mom is (aka dead). Therefore, I am curious as to what the characters’ reasons are for surviving. However, I doubt I will have my question answered given the ambiguity of the story.

I also find it interesting that the boy has so much trust in others even after being born into a world where sanity is all but lost. If he had a goal, it would probably to go to the south to find other young boys and dogs to befriend. His motivation indicates that he hasn't completely lost a sense of trust, even though his dad keeps him constantly aware of the “bad guys” they often encounter. He also seemed disappointed in his dad for killing the man that put a knife to his throat. Death and murder are things the boy still can’t accept even if he witnesses them on a daily basis.