The stories Hesse tells appeal to young people, because they keep faith with the powerful emotions of adolescence, which most adults forget or outgrow. As a young middle class boy Emil Sinclair has trouble knowing what is or what should be. Throughout this novel he is constantly seeking validation as well as mentorship. As Emil struggles a childhood friend begins to mentor him and is said to be his daimon. In ancient greek daimon is is a person's deity or guiding spirit. In his story Emil's parents are a symbol of safety and fallback as his friend helps lead him to self realization.