In the novel The Grapes of Wrath, by John Steinbeck, Tom Joad is a character that kills a man. He had no other choice, either die or kill. Tom Joad's reactions to his mistake are first run and hide, secondly regret of his mistake, and lastly abandoning his family.
First, Tom reacts to his mistake by running and hiding. On page 386 the book says, "And the he was running along the stream bending low. He heard the splash of footsteps following him." Tom killed the man that had chased him into the stream. Then someone hit him and he started to run with people in pursuit. On page 386 the book says, "Along the highway he saw the dancing beams of flashlights, searching the ditches." Tom hid in a ditch trying to escape the consequences of his action. And since he is on parole he would be sent to jail for several years after just getting out.
Secondly, Tom regrets his decision and tells his mom he should leave so he doesn't bring more hardship to the family. On page 390 the books says, "Ma I have to go or you"ll all be in trouble cause of me. I"m sorry I dun" it ma I couldn't help myself." His mother came out to his hiding spot to give him food. And she found him almost crying because of all the trouble he is causing. On page 403 the book says "Ma, maybe I should just leave. I could make it on my own. I don't want to cause you any more trouble." He just said he was going to leave and try to make it on his own. He regrets his mistake so much he decides to leave his family.
Lastly, Tom reacts by totally abandoning his family. On page 403 the book says, "Good-Bye ma."-You can't leave us like this, who"ll drive the truck?" Tom finally is starting to leave but his mom knows that the family can't make it without him. He doesn't realize how much they need him. On page 406 the book says, "Tom, come back! You can't leave the family; we need you." As Tom walks away his mom yells for him. He hears her but thinks that turning back will bring more pain on his family.
