Aubrey's post

It seems to me that Grady surrounds himself that remind him being a child or a member of a family. Often times Grady points out James’ childishness and innocence. James is still learning things about the world and experiencing new and exciting things. While grady on the other hand is no longer innocent to the world, but had experienced many hardships throughout his life that have left him somewhat bitter. I believe that one of the reasons why Grady spends so much time with James is to remind himself of that innocence he once had. It might be possible that he is sick of his drug and alcohol use and relationships problems. Maybe spending a lot of time with James makes Grady feel young again. It also can cause Grady to rethink his life. What would he have done differently? Would he change what has happened to him so far in life? These are questions that cannot be definitely answered, but were possibly provoked through hanging out with James. Also, Grady had a strong attachment to Emily’s family. Even though he and Emily were having problems, her family still cared for him and he still cared for them. Grady had a strong connection with Irv. It is possible that the reason Grady was into drugs and alcohol was lack of a family, especially a father figure. Irv fulfilled this hole and helped Grady grow. The family’s loss of Sam is a very prominent issue within that family. Sam was the youngest son and at the Seder Meal, the youngest was supposed to perform the “Four Questions”. When Grady brought James to the Dinner, Irene asked James if he would do it since he was now the youngest person in the house. Of course, James agreed to it. This situation proves as another example of the need to fill voids where family belongs. Since it was around the time when Sam died, Emily’s family used James to fill the void that was there due to Sam being gone. Grady uses Emily’s family to fill that void. James uses Grady to fill that void. In reality, we all use others in order to fill up some hole in our life that is causing us unhappiness or instability. I believe that this act was prevalent in Wonder Boys. I agree that it is necessary and good to use those around you to make you feel comforted and good about yourself.