Actions speak louder than words, silence is an acceptable form of communication, manliness is next to devotion, and respect and loyalty are paramount. These are some guidelines that pertain to the infamous cowboy code that John Grady lives by in “All the Pretty Horses.” According to critic Jane Tompkins, the code consists of "self-discipline; unswerving purpose; the exercise of knowledge, skill, ingenuity, and excellent judgment; and the ability to continue despite total exhaustion and overwhelming odds." A sixteen-year-old boy, Grady wanted to follow in his grandfather's footsteps to become a cowboy. He lives life by the code that values ​​honor and loyalty. He loves the fire in horses and Grady also appreciated the fire was in his grandfather. He grew up on his grandfather's ranch, which his mother sold after his grandfather's death. After the ranch was sold, Grady felt the need to move because he no longer felt an attachment to Texas while still trying to be true to the cowboy code, so he went to Mexico to find what was "missing" in his hometown . It's unclear whether Grady attempts to adhere to the cowboy code he looks up to and believes in. Many times Grady has shown the reader that he likes to do the right thing, instead of doing things in his favor. He does what is necessary even at the cost of his own happiness. A great example is when he refuses to bribe Perez. Instead of bribing Perez for his safety, he invests the money in a knife to defend himself. Grady does this because he has sworn to fight like a noble cowboy. Another example is crossing the Rio Grande River. That's when Rawlins and Grady met Jimmy Blevins. There's talk of... middle of paper... tracking down Alejandra and not accepting Perez's offer. Adhering to his moral code is what makes him do the right thing in many cases. John Grady shines in the aspect of resilience to all the challenges he faces. If you look at the cowboy code, almost everyone has his own character. He becomes an existential hero by demonstrating ardor despite his newfound awareness. Eventually, he becomes aware of the reality of power and culture. Become authentic. Overall, Grady represents the ideal cowboy because he wants to live free, adventurous, and is honest. Sometimes he finds himself in bad situations, but it's not his fault, it's external forces or other individuals who don't see life the same way he does. He tries to live up to his code no matter what situation he finds himself in, which is impressive. He sticks to his morals without compromise.