Familial relationships

John Cheever has a fantastic insight into familial relationships. That makes his short stories feel true and real. One of the best examples is "Goodbye, My Brother," which tells the tale of the Pomeroy family. Mrs. Pomeroy has instilled the importance of family into her children and works hard to create a peaceful and comfortable atmosphere for all, even when the situation may be difficult. The relationships among the four children ring true with loyalty and jealousy—equal parts of tolerance and intolerance. Mrs. Pomeroy hates to hear criticism of the children, even from one another, because she doesn't get to see them very often. No matter how old or accomplished one becomes, each person is in some ways still viewed as a child. Lawrence's choice to alienate himself from the rest of the family is insulting and yet not completely unexpected. The familial relationships between...