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Originally posted by Sicilian Babe:
Dontomasso - While I think you have picked an interesting topic, and one that has not been discussed at great length before, I do not agree with some of your points.

I don't think that when Sonny brought Tom home, he created friction within the family. I think that the Corleone's welcomed Tom. Also, although the book discusses this at greater length, it was not uncharacteristic of Sonny to be kind, despite his bad temper.

Also, Michael's repsonse to Tom about the discussions Tom has had with Vito about Michael's future is not characterized by jealousy, IMO. I believe he's resentful of the invasion of his privacy, as he is obviously trying to distance himself from the Family.

Also, at Connie's wedding, I believe the "real man" remark was aimed at Sonny, not Tom, as you stated. It was Vito's way of expressing displeasure at Sonny's dalliance with Lucy.

I'm not sure how Sonny's remark to Tom about Genco established hostility between Fredo and Michael. I think that Sonny said it out of bad temper and because he was angry at Tom for missing the signs about Paulie's betrayal.

Also, I don't believe that Tom ever felt superior to his adopted family. I believe the opposite was true. I think he loved them and craved their acceptance, which is why he seems so moved when Michael calls him a brother in GF2.

I think that when Michael announces that he will kill Sollozzo and McCluskey, Tom shakes his head out of sadness, not because he thinks of those in the room as morons. I believe that he is very sad that circumstances have brought Michael to this point. I think he wanted Michael to go "legit", and this was putting an end to all that.
Well said, Sicilian Babe, you took the words right out of my mouth.

"The toe you stepped on yesterday may be attached to the ass you have to kiss today."
-Former Mayor of Providence, RI, Vincent "Buddy" Cianci