John D. MacDonald's short story "End of the Tiger" tells the tale of how a goose affected the life of one family. The author describes Gretchen, the goose in the story, in a positive way. By using various methods of characterization, John D. MacDonald is able to portray Gretchen as an innocent and friendly character. Gretchen's positive qualities are emphasized through her physical appearance, her actions, and through what other characters say about her.
             Firstly, through his physical description of Gretchen, the author is able to depict her as an innocent character who is incapable of causing harm. He talks of Gretchen as being "blazing white"- a colour that often symbolizes purity and guiltlessness. Many times, it is associated with angels and other celestial beings, which are known for their virtuosity and impeccable morality. In addition, these individuals are usually dressed in white clothing, and have a pale complexion. By creating a link between Gretchen and such beings, the author is able to, indirectly, show the goose's innocence. In addition, by describing the colour as being "blazing", John D. MacDonald wishes to show the intensity of Gretchen's kindness. Through such subtle physical descriptions of Gretchen, the author is able to show her as being a pleasant character.
             John D. MacDonald further portrays Gretchen in a positive manner when, as another method of characterization, he makes her actions seem human and almost child-like thus symbolizing the innocence of a young child. At one point in the story, the goose exhibits her fondness for humans, especially the youngsters in the family, when she "poddles along behind [them]" as they walk through the yard. She also preens Christine's hair, "never tugging or hurting, [and] making little chortling sounds in her throat". The preening of Christine's hair may remind some readers of a common ac...