On Beauty: Jerome

In the beginning of the novel, it becomes clear that Jerome goes to live with the Kipps to get his father's attention. I believe that the main reason he is doing this is the affair that his father had on his mother. This has most likely had a major affect on Howard's children, especially Jerome being the oldest. Jerome seems to be extremely upset about the affair; I think he feels that it has completely destroyed his family. He is willing to do anything to get his father's attention and possibly even seek revenge on him by living with Howard's enemy. It is pretty obvious to me that their relationship needs a lot of work. I think it is interesting that Howard refuses to respond to any of his son's emails knowing that their relationship is falling apart. This shows how selfish Howard is, even in situations involving his own children. Jerome eventually becomes very close to the Kipps and is slightly heartbroken when he leaves them. He has decided that he no longer wants his family and all of the problems that come along with it. Meanwhile, Howard has yet to show any remorse for what he has done to Jerome or his family. It will be interesting to see which direction the relationship between Jerome and his father takes throughout the novel.