In the short story "The Loneliness of the Long-Distance Runner" by Alan Sillitoe, the main character of Smith is an anti-hero. An anti-hero is a central or supporting character that has some of the personality flaws and ultimate fortune traditionally associated with villains, but nonetheless has the heroic qualities and intentions to gain the sympathy of readers. Although the line between the villain and the anti-hero are very ambiguous, the anti-hero commonly has the soul and character of a conventional hero. The anti-hero is often shown as having a turbulent, violent background and conflicting motivations. Accepting and somewhat relishing in his status as an outsider, Smith exemplifies these anti-heroic characteristics throughout his stay at the Borstal and the preceding robbery.

When Smith and his co-conspirator Mike rob the local bakery store, Smith displays his villainous characteristics. Smith does not care at all that he is breaking the law...