The main character in Evan Hunter’s short story entitled “On the sidewalk bleeding” initially believes that he isn’t dying and being a royal is his pride, but later understands that he is dying because he is a royal. His changing understanding is revealed through the use of symbolism, setting and characterization.

“He did not know he was dying. He lay on the sidewalk, bleeding, and he thought only: That was a fierce rumble.”

“He could remember how happy he was when the Royals had taken him. The Royals and the Guardians, two of the biggest.”

“If he had not been wearing the jacket he wouldn’t have been stabbed”