I believe that I understand where Clark is coming from. A core part of his identity has been invalidated and he’s suffering from the shock that, in a worst-case scenario, he was discarded as an inconvenience and then lied to about it by his biological parents.
I don’t wish to argue that this is not a possible reaction for any individual in circumstances such as this. I would expect that a shock like this could result is a range of behaviors. At one extreme I could see Clark turning away from those near him with doubts about all his relationships. On the other extreme would be a reaction where Clark turned toward those close to him and cherished the relationships that he has even more.
I was simply saying that based on my vision of Clark and his personality, I would expect his reaction to be more in line with the second option. I certainly acknowledge that the first is a possible reaction based on the circumstances.
I was not in any way trying to criticize the structure of the story and apologize if it appeared that I was being critical in that way. I am simply a bit provincial in my perspective and sometimes struggle when I encounter a reality that is at variance with my expectation.
Now, all that said, the fact that this story is at variance with my vision in no way prevents me from enjoying it. I am enjoying it and certainly agree that this is a superior work.
Bob
