The main character in Evan Hunter’s short story entitled “On the Sidewalk Bleeding” initially believes he’s suffering from a superficial injury but later understands that his life is slipping away from him. His changing understanding is revealed through symbolism, the point of view, and his interactions with other characters.

• “Now, in the alley, with the cold rain washing his hot body, he wondered about the meaning.”
• “He wanted to say, ‘Hey, I’m alive! Hey, look at me! I’m alive! Don’t you know I’m alive? Don’t you know I exist?'”
• “‘I don’t want to get this mixed up in this. He’s a Royal. We help him, and the Guardians’ll be down on our necks.”