The Most Important Thing: Stories about Sons, Fathers, and Grandfathers

Paul, the protagonist of “Dream Catcher,” is sarcastic, observant, and emotionally perceptive, often picking up on subtle cues others miss. His relationship with his father is strained; his father is described as cold and emotionally reserved, “with smiles as rare as snowballs in August” (2). Paul notes that he is always formally dressed, in “a tie, a white shirt with a handkerchief in his pocket, and his hair combed back with care” (3). His appearance reflects his strict personality and paternal coldness. Paul, in contrast, is sensitive and curious, and watches the world around him as well as the people in his orbit. When he sees a trapped sparrow in the airport, it mirrors his own feeling of being stuck within intergenerational tensions, as Paul struggles to negotiate between a silent father and an estranged grandfather. He draws attention to the theme of Turning Intergenerational Tension into Opportunity.

Though resistant to visiting a grandfather he barely knows, Paul remains open to connection and is curious about his father’s past. His honesty pushes Road, Paul’s grandfather, to confront buried trauma from the Vietnam War. In a pivotal moment in the story, Paul listens as Road opens up about Vietnam, nightmares, and family divides.