Okonkwo was influenced by his relationship with his father because he wants to be successful and important, unlike his father, who is lazy, poor, and unsuccessful. Okonkwo’s father, Unoka, was “lazy and improvident and was quite incapable of thinking about tomorrow” because he was like this, his relationship with his son weakened. Okonkwo refuses to be seen as weak and “had no patience for unsuccessful men.” The author discusses Unoka’s “shameful” death, and how he died deep in debt. Okonkwo on the other hand, brings pride to his village. Okonkwo’s personal character is reflected in the person he wishes his father had been, so that he is not seen as a failure or disappointment to his family.