Hold On Loosely, Before You Lose Control

In "The Story", the narrator is struggling with the reality that his son is growing up and will soon leave the proverbial nest. His inability to interest his son with his stories, which he has used with great efficacy for his son's entire life, makes him feel powerless, timid, and obtuse. He doesn't want his son to mature and experience the things which the world has to offer due to his natural cupidity. It is his innate desire to hold on to his son, to protect him, and to provide him with food and shelter that blinds him. He likely has good intentions and wants the best for his son, which would be to experience the world and leave his childhood home and stories. He is not dumb nor does he have an inability to communicate. He is simply a loving parent whose judgement is clouded, and he is frustrated because of it.