Exploring the Father-Son Relationship in Seize the Day through Murray Bowen’s Family Systems Theory

XinYi Yang

doi:10.63313/LLCS.9126

Authors

XinYi Yang School of English, Tianjin Foreign Studies University, Tianjin 300000, China Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.63313/LLCS.9126

Keywords:

Family Systems Theory, father-son relationship, dysfunctional relationship, Saul Bellow, Seize the Day

Abstract

This essay thoroughly examines the father-son relationship in Saul Bellow’s Seize the Day through the framework of Murray Bowen's Family Systems Theory. By focusing on three key Bowenian concepts—differentiation of self, family projection process and emotional cutoff—this analysis reveals how Wilhelm's emotional struggles are shaped by his dysfunctional relationship with his father, Dr. Adler. The essay explores how Wilhelm’s emotional dependency, internalized projections, and failed emotional cutoff contribute to his ongoing psychological distress.

References

[1] Bellow, Saul. Seize the Day. Penguin Books, 2013.

[2] Bowen, Murray. Family Therapy in Clinical Practice. Jason Aronson, 1993.

[3] Galloway, David. “The Tragic Dimensions of Tommy Wilhelm.” Saul Bellow: The Early Years, edited by Robert R. O’Meally, University of Chicago Press, 1987, pp. 85-94.

[4] Kerr, Michael E. Bowen Theory and Practice: Illustration and Critique. W.W. Norton & Company, 2004.

[5] Mepham, John. The Family and the Self in the Modern Novel. Harper & Row, 1982.