Chapter 4, Belonging Summary and Analysis

In observing the MacMurray family, Miller learns that families work together. Children hold as much importance as adults. Surprisingly, John MacMurray prefers time with his children to time in front of the television.

Another item of importance during this time in Miller's life is an autobiography of President Eisenhower. Eisenhower's self-confidence impresses Miller. He realizes that his existence makes an impact in the world. Parents, especially fathers, instill this idea in their children at a young age.

Miller, on the other hand, believed that his existence burdened the world. His mother, he believed, suffered from his existence. Upon reading Eisenhower's book, Miller sees that the lack of a parental partner exhausted his mother. Miller's existence was not the cause of her exhaustion.

Feelings of inferiority abound during this time. He fears that others avoid him because he fails to...