Because everybody on the school board, and the railroad, and the PTA and paper mill had to be somebody's mother or father, whether really or as a member of a category; and there was a point at which the reflex to their covering warmth, protection, effectiveness against bad dreams, bruised heads and simple loneliness took over and made worthwhile anger with them impossible.
In the quote from Thomas Pynchon's "Slow Learner: Early Stories," the author reflects on the interconnectedness of community members, emphasizing that everyone in positions of influence, such as the school board or local organizations, plays a parental role. This collective identity as caregivers fosters a sense of warmth and protection that complicates any feelings of anger towards them. Instead of viewing these individuals as separate entities, Pynchon suggests they are unified by their responsibilities and emotional connections.
The notion of familial or community bonds highlights an inherent challenge when facing discontent directed at these figures. Pynchon's observation suggests that the instinct to nurture and shield one another can overshadow the recognition of shortcomings or failures within these groups. Thus, the complexities of human relationships within a community can render meaningful criticism difficult, as the underlying affection and accountability inhibit straightforward expressions of frustration.
