tc 6. On the Rainy River (short Story by Tim O'Brien)

I think the conviction of understanding himself and his real motives are being tested here. I don't think we can simplify this to pass or fail. Would he have been a failure if he jumped out of that boat and headed for Canada? I don't think so, he would have become a different person. I think this scene is a test about being true to himself which he does pass with flying colours.