A Cap for Steve

             Dave, in "A cap for Steve", shows the common struggle to make ends meet in his family, financially. He tries to juggle the balance between basic human living, in the form of shelter, clothing and food, while at the same time trying not to compromise his relationship with his son. There is a struggle between his money-set mind, and his love for his son. Ultimately, Dave is trying to care for and protect his son, but does not seem to know how to do it effectively. It is apparent from the start that Dave is not a wealthy man, the author describes of how he had "... to make every dollar count in his home" (252). Not only this, but to add towards the burden, he is the only source of income in the family, as "[h]is wife, Anna, had been sick a lot..."(252). In these conditions the author gives the reader sympathy in Dave's position, that although firm and strict about usage of finances within the household, it is not without good reason. The first instance where Dave is tested regarding his struggle is when his son, Steve asks about going to the Philly's game. As expected, the initial reaction is reluctance from Dave. Through persistence however, Dave eventually agrees to, with the condition of Steve helping out to make the kitchen shelves. It is here that the initial instance where Dave starts to show more compassion and value his relationship with his son over financial security. His harshness with his son is soon redeemed, "When they started out Steve held aloof, feeling guilty, and they walked down the street like strangers; then Dave glanced at Steve's face and, half-ashamed, took his arm more cheerfully"(253). Dave realizes he may be too stern with Steve, and puts on a more cheerful persona, opposed to his typical money-focused mindset. Dave's struggle continues after his son acquires the baseball cap. He has doubts about the worth of the cap, and wonders why Steve is so fanatic about it. Soo
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A Cap for Steve. (1969, December 31). In MegaEssays.com. Retrieved 13:14, March 28, 2024, from https://www.megaessays.com/viewpaper/22362.html