The Boy is the second main character in The Road. The Man’s role throughout the novel is protecting his child while The Boy’s role is to remain his father’s moral compass, ensuring they stay on the side of the good guys and continue to “carry the light.” For example, when one of the “bad guys” in the novel attempts to kidnap his son, he attacks with a knife, killing the attacker without a second thought. He doesn’t let it interfere with his ability to take care of them. He continually puts on a hopeful face for his son, expressing determination that the two are going to find a safe home near the coast, but it’s clear The Man is not quite as hopeful as he seems.ĭespite his love for his son, The Man is incredibly tough. He has to take care of his son and find him a safe place to live out his life, and perhaps find some kind of happiness. When speaking about his son, he describes him as his “warrant.” The child is the only reason the man keeps on living. For example, readers get an insight into his life through his memories of his youth and his relationship with his wife.
Much of what is known about the man is delivered through flashbacks to a time at the beginning of the end of the world or prior to the events of the novel. His wife killed herself outside the timeline of the novel, leaving him to care for their son without her. He has a son, know only as “The Boy” or “The Man’s son.” He’s the only thing The Man cares about in the whole world. This situation, the author is emphasizing, could’ve happened to anyone. He remains unnamed throughout the novel, allowing any reader to place themselves in his position.
One of the two main characters of The Road.
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