The protagonist in Cormac McCarthy's "The Road" experiences profound emotional moments while observing his son sleep. In these moments, he is overwhelmed with sobs, but his tears are not solely tied to fears of death. Instead, they stem from a deep sense of beauty and goodness that he feels he can no longer fully comprehend or appreciate in their harsh environment.

This reflection underscores the struggle of finding humanity amidst despair. The father, facing a bleak world, grapples with feelings that remind him of what is good, yet fleeting. His sorrow signals a longing for the lost values of love and hope, which starkly contrasts with the survival instincts that dominate their reality.