It is presented that "In his world, men did not tender apologies.(P31)" Living in this emotionless environment, Stephen never even has the courage to question any of his father's views, is physical strength the only thing one needs to become a "real man"?.
During the conversation with Leka, Stephen sees Leka's courage, which makes Leka a man different from his father but with integrity. In the work place, this foreigner accepts Stephen and shows him his cultural difference of masculinity. Leka's approach on life, especially after seeing the World War and having his brother die, is positive and carefree to judgements of others. Stephen sees his attitude toward the stereotypes through his casual words, "Or perhaps it is only that God made this country to teach man humility.(P30)" Although Leka doesn't have the physical strength of a "man", it is obvious that he has the strength to start a new life in a new country to overcome a huge language and cultural barrier. This reflects the seemingly unimportance of being a "man" that Stephen's father is so concerned about. Stephen can see that even through hardships it is possible to be free and unconcerned with issues so small as being confined to a single point of view when, in the end, it means nothing to have been physically strong or cool amongst your peers. Just like what Leka says, "The world would not come to an end if it took us all day to cut this one tree down.(P30)" In the end all that matters is how you treat other and what makes you happy in terms or how you represent yourself as an individual. "There is not much room in the world for glass roses.(P29)" Stephen learns that integrity is not easy to achieve, and he has to try hard to protect his courage to be himself, which is precious. .
Struggling between father's warning and Leka's fine words, it is the time that Stephen decide to find his own way and be his own individual with courage.