When John Updike wrote A&P the thoughts that went through his head were much like those that go through many people’s heads. He wanted think like an adolescent would and put those thoughts into Sammy. All the descriptive language John Updike used may have seemed like a lot, but I’m sure most people can attest to having their minds race around just as Sammy’s did. When you rethink the situation maybe Sammy initially may have made his decision for the wrong reason but he did not regret it even after he knew the girls had not witnessed it. If he was angry about quitting his job and wanted it back then he would have been wrong the whole time instead of the one moment when he looked for gratitude. Sammy might not be your traditional hero but he may be considered so.