Final answer:
Hazen's distant and unaffectionate relationship with his son in 'They Grind Exceedingly Small' is steeped in irony, as his son mirrors his disdainful qualities towards the less fortunate, highlighting the emptiness of their bond and the moral vacuum in their lives.
Step-by-step explanation:
In "They Grind Exceedingly Small", Hazen's relationship with his son is depicted as distant and largely devoid of genuine affection; the story presents a character who is wealth-obsessed and consumed by his own greed. Part of the irony lies in Hazen's son inheriting some of his father's disdainful qualities, especially towards those who are poor or from a humbler background, as is hinted when the son exhibits 'some of the poor man's deference toward the wealthy and well-born.' Despite the potential for a father-son bond, Hazen's relationship with his son is marred by his inability to escape the grip of his own miserly character.
Another layer of irony is noted in the extreme contrast between Hazen's wealth and the lack of richness in his human relationships. This emptiness exemplifies the moral of the story; despite possessing vast material wealth, Hazen fails to 'invest' in the emotional and moral development of his child—leading to a hollow and unfulfilling life that is eventually mirrored by his son's behavior and outlook.