San Diego, Senior Year (pp. 107-109) Summary

Steve is notified that he is a National Merit finalist, a notable academic achievement. He then receives a telephone call from his father. Steve is surprised that his father has called to speak with him, and the telephone conversation is somewhat formal. Alan asks Steve to be his best man at his wedding. Steve does not give a definitive answer although he already is planning on not attending the wedding. Instead, he evades answering the question. Alan concludes the call by noting that it is a standing offer. After the call, Steve smokes marijuana.

San Diego, Senior Year (pp. 107-109) Analysis

Alan York is not the man that Steve imagines him to be. In many ways, he is a difficult father - demanding and somewhat domineering. Yet, he is also insightful and thoughtful...