What can be inferred about the presence of fathers in the lives of women in 'The House on Mango Street'?

In 'The House on Mango Street,' the depiction of fathers suggests that they are frequently absent or exert oppressive control over the women in their lives. This is illustrated through various characters and their experiences. For example, the narrative reveals that women's lives are often shaped by the limitations imposed by their fathers or by the societal expectations they represent. The protagonist, Esperanza, encounters layers of gender inequality and the struggles faced by women in her community.

Fathers in the text are often portrayed as figures who either do not provide the support needed for their daughters to thrive or reinforce oppressive norms that restrict their independence. This dynamic reflects broader themes of patriarchy and the challenges women face in seeking autonomy. Through these portrayals, readers can infer that the presence of fathers often adds to the complexity of the women's lives, illustrating how they may struggle against both their absence and the heavy-handedness that can accompany their roles as authority figures.