A Response to Zeitoun, by Dave Eggers

“Just keeping [the workers] in food and clothing, chasing them down when they were late or absent--all of it was exhausting and occasionally disheartening. He felt, sometimes, as if he had not four children but dozens, most of them with paint-covered hands and mustaches” (Eggers, 29).

I found this quote to be interesting because I think that it reveals a part of Zeitoun’s character. From an objective viewpoint, Zeitoun is only required to be responsible for his workers on a professional, job-related level. But this quote shows how he feels obligated to care for them personally, as children and not just employees. I think the types of emotions he feels day in and day out also demonstrate the fatherly care he has for his workers. Like a parent, he feels worn out and discouraged because caring for his workers is a demanding job. Yet, also like a parent, Zeitoun cares about the overall good of his workers, and he is willing to sacrifice himself to serve and help his men. The author effectively incorporated imagery in this passage because when I imagine Zeitoun having numerous children with facial hair and paintbrushs, I cannot help but smile. Also, because this quote was written in a conversational manner, it made it easier and more enjoyable to read. While the tone of this passage is lighthearted, I think that it is somewhat grave as well because the reader is given a glimpse into how much responsibility Zeitoun actually bears. Even though Zeitoun may wear himself out because of the way he cares for so many individuals, I think it is a noble thing for a man like Zeitoun to care for people that may not be able to care for themselves.