The term "criminal" evokes strong emotions, often overshadowing its legal implications. This is evident in the wanted posters displayed at U.S. post offices, where the faces of fugitives are presented in stark black-and-white images. These photographs, reminiscent of caricatures, project a sense of villainy and otherness. They communicate a societal belief that human evil is easily identifiable, creating a false sense of security among the public that they can distinguish themselves from potential victims.

James Lee Burke, in his book "Last Car to Elysian Fields," explores the complexities behind these perceptions. The appearance of criminals in these images can lead to an oversimplification of their nature—labeling them as inherently evil and different from ourselves. This notion fosters a divisive view of crime and morality, suggesting that true evil is apparent and can be avoided, while failing to recognize the deeper societal and personal factors that contribute to criminal behavior.