The narrator expresses mixed feelings about the admiration their father receives. Despite feeling depressed by the situation, they notice that women are very attracted to the father's image, including his books, sweaters, and his bright smile paired with a tan. This suggests a complicated admiration and possibly a superficial attraction to his persona.

The quote highlights the contrast between the father's popularity and the narrator's personal feelings. While women love his appealing traits and what he represents, the narrator views him in a more critical light, implying that his success and charm have also turned him into someone less admirable, even likening him to a "total dick." This reflects a sense of disillusionment and complex family dynamics.