Final answer:
In 'The Road' by Cormac McCarthy, the boy and his father exhibit a deep mutual affection and reliance on each other, maintaining their bond through shared moments of comfort and steadfast emotional support even as they confront the harshest of post-apocalyptic realities.
Step-by-step explanation:
In Cormac McCarthy's novel The Road, the relationship between the boy and his father is one of deep affection and interdependence. Amidst the stark brutality of their world, they maintain a profound bond, caring for each other both physically and emotionally. The father undoubtedly loves his son, seeing him as his single greatest reason to persevere, often referring to the boy as "the fire" he carries. This fire symbolizes hope and purity in a desolate world. Their mutual dependence is constantly reasserted as they face starvation, cold, and threats from other survivors.
The boy, on his part, admires and trusts his father, looking to him for guidance and protection. They express concern for each other's well-being, with the father reassuring the boy and the boy showing concern when his father coughs blood, signaling the father's decline. Despite the father's growing sickness, they find moments of connection, sharing memories and embracing small comforts like sharing a Coca-Cola or stories of the past. These moments of comfort showcase their unyielding affection and faith in a world stripped of humanity.