his past It highlights the idea that Tommy is grappling with his present circumstances and the legacy of his family and upbringing Dr Adler Tommy's father serves as a symbol of authority and judgment He's a successful and critical figure with high expectations for his son The advice to get off signifies Tommy's desire to distance himself from his father's control and scrutiny He wants to live on his terms and make his own choices even if those choices lead to failure This line from Seize the Day expresses Tommy's inner struggle for freedom and self-determination It also highlights the generational tension between him and his father Dr Adlar Dr Adlar represents the conventional values and aspirations that Tommy is trying to escape The novel explores the universal theme of individuals seeking their paths and identities while grappling with the expectations and pressures imposed upon them by society and family