In the short story, “Two Fishermen,” Michael Foster, an ambitious, young man, is described as, “a tall, long-legged, eager young fellow,” who’s dream is to, “work on an important newspaper” (Callaghan 1). Foster is very determined to fulfill his dream and will do anything to create the best news story possible. Foster talked with the hangman and even became friends with him when everyone else in town was scared to be near him. Foster is also very friendly and connect with anyone; he goes around town talking to people and it seemed Foster had some sort of relationship with nearly everyone. Foster is and outgoing person and is not easily intimidated, this is evident when he first meets Smitty and does not hold back from telling him his goals and how he wants, “to get a reporter’s job on a city paper”(Callaghan 3). However, what Foster gains in social skills, he lacks in self confidence. He does not want anybody to know he is friends with the hangman, and will not stand up for him when he needed Foster most. Foster cares too much about what people think of him and is afraid of being judged by others. Foster may be seen as a coward, however he is very ambitious and will do anything he needs to do to achieve his dream.

Michael Foster Picture