In Richard Ford's "The Sportswriter," the notion of facing the prospect of regret is central to the narrative. Ford suggests that while sportswriting can reveal profound truths, it is also filled with deceits. The characters grapple with their choices, recognizing that acknowledging regret is essential to their existence. It serves as a reminder that life often involves confronting difficult emotions and the consequences of decisions made.

Moreover, the struggle to navigate regret is a key theme in the book. One must learn not only to confront regret but also to manage it effectively, as allowing it to dominate one's life can lead to despair and destruction. Ford emphasizes the delicate balance between acceptance and avoidance, underscoring the importance of living with intention and awareness to avoid being consumed by the past.