Innocence Still Stands In A World Of Corruption

The man and the child are the main characters of The Road, and almost the only ones. Throughout the novel, they surpass various moments of fear, as they intend to survive after an unknown cause of fires. The few people that remain with life live with the same desperation as these two do. There is almost no food to be found, obligating the survivors to continue their struggle with hunger. Due to this, people see no other choice but cannibalism. Even though hunger is a tough factor affecting these people, there are even bigger fears like being found and eaten. Humanity has lost their sense, making the world one of corruption. However, the boy represents innocence. Unknowing the reasons for others’ actions, he sees nothing but people suffering. He continually asks his father “Are we still the good guys?” (77) since he finds himself in a state of confusion. When they hear some kind of noise, the father being naturally alarmed tells the child they must hide. However, the child doubts if “it’s the bad guys” (79) since his lack of knowledge doesn’t allow him to understand everyone and everything around them is a threat. Although the child is involved in the horrible situation, his lack of acquaintance represents him as an innocent child. He doesn’t want to accept things are happening and doesn’t realize involving another kid with them is nothing but dangerous and harmful to their health since they would have to share everything with the new member. Nevertheless, the boy insists on taking the child with them. The father tries to tell him no one was there but the boy continues saying “There’s a little boy, Papa…Yes there is. I saw him”. (84) The father knows taking the needy boy would only be a mistake, but the innocent son believes they should help him by taking him with them.

Innocence