Sherman made the terrible discovery that men make about their fathers sooner or later... that the man before him was not an aging father but a boy, a boy much like himself, a boy who grew up and had a child of his own and, as best he could, out of a sense of duty and, perhaps love, adopted a role called Being a Father so that his child would have something mythical and infinitely important: a Protector, who would keep a lid on all the chaotic and catastrophic possibilities of life.

Summary

This quote highlights the realization that many individuals come to about their fathers - that behind the authoritative figure stands a person who was once a boy, just like themselves. The father assumed the responsibility of "Being a Father," taking on the role of protector for their child. This duty was borne out of a desire to shield their child from the unpredictable and potentially devastating aspects of life. This quote captures the universal experience of understanding the vulnerability and humanity present in one's father, despite the air of authority they may exhibit.

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