Cormac McCarthy The CrossingThis story contains a near-equal balance of good and evil, though it also raises questions about what is truly good. It blurs the lines between good, selfish and reckless. The characters' actions sometimes seem impure, but in the long run they are good. In this story Billy faces a wide range of undeserved punishments, but shows the good in them all with his strong will and determination. He accepts the things that happen to him in a balanced way, which helps keep the story from becoming a tragedy. The prime example of undeserved punishment is the death of Billy's family. Not only was he unable to help them in any way, but there wasn't even a good reason for this to happen. Even though Billy could lose all hope, become depressed, and angry at the world or God for this injustice, he instead decides to right the wrong. To begin his quest to right the wrong, Billy picks up Boyd, who is staying at another house following the death of his family. Before leaving, Billy takes a rifle, blanket, money, and other supplies from the house. Boyd comments, "Even an outlaw does not rob those who welcomed him and befriended him." In this case it could be said that Billy's actions are morally wrong. In this case, however, the end justifies the means. Billy is making a small mistake to serve the greater good, which reflects a higher impulse on Billy's part. Billy's patience is also tested when he learns of his heart murmur. He's trying...