Communication Problems in Hugh Garner's "The Father"

Who is perfect; certainly not John Purcel in Hugh Garner's short story "The Father" about a desperate alcoholic father (John Purcel) trying to get closer to his son (Johnny) who seems to be slowly drifting away from him. This will be demonstrated through out a series of examples which will prove the father's drinking problem, his neglective attitude towards his son and his low self esteem. Alcohol can control a person's life and make them …

…is difficult to have any positive relationships because you are always worried about what others think. In conclusion Johnny's father finally realized he had to change in order to be closer to his son. It would be hard for John Purcell to have a close relationship with his son due to his lack of interest in him, his alcoholism, and his lack of self-esteem. John's negative personality dominated his relationships with his son and others.