A journalist interviews a death row inmate who claims he wants to do good without the taint of public approval. As they spar over the nature of atonement and morality, the conversation turns chillingly personal when she asks why he murdered his wife.
GRIEFF: Moral worth. That’s the only criterion. I want to do good. I have a little ability, almost no resources, and limited time. Within that framework, I would like to do whatever good I can. That’s it, that’s all there is. I want to do good.
BETH: What - so this is like... what would you call it - atonement?
GRIEFF: Atonement will come when they strap me to a table and end my life. Until then, I make do.
BETH: And why wouldn’t I want to print that?
GRIEFF: Because your readers might approve.
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