"Traveling Through the Dark" is a poem by William Stafford that explores the themes of life, death, and moral decision-making. The speaker encounters a dead deer on a dark road and grapples with the implications of its presence. This moment serves as a metaphor for the choices we face in life, particularly when confronted with difficult situations. As the speaker considers whether to push the deer into the ravine to prevent further accidents, he reflects on the value of life and the impact of his actions. The poem ultimately highlights the complexities of human experience and the weight of responsibility in making choices.