They were beckoning to him, calling shrilly.” Why did the seagull’s father and mother threaten him and cajole him to fly?

In the story "Jonathan Livingston Seagull" by Richard Bach, the young seagull's father and mother initially threaten and cajole him to fly because they are concerned about his safety and well-being. They belong to a flock of seagulls that adheres strictly to tradition and practical concerns, such as finding food and avoiding danger. Flying for the sake of flying, as Jonathan desires, is considered reckless and unnecessary by the flock. When Jonathan continues to pursue his passion for flying despite their warnings, his parents become increasingly worried about his behavior. They fear that his unconventional actions will lead to his isolation and eventual demise. Therefore, they resort to threatening and cajoling him in an attempt to persuade him to conform to the norms of the flock and prioritize practical matters over his desire for flight. However, as the story progresses, Jonathan's parents begin to understand and appreciate the depth of his passion and determination. They witness his unwavering commitment to mastering the art of flight and his willingness to endure hardship and rejection in pursuit of his dreams. Eventually, they come to accept and support Jonathan's quest for self-discovery and transcendence, recognizing the courage and resilience it takes to follow one's own path, even in the face of opposition. Overall, the initial threats and cajoling from Jonathan's parents stem from their concern for his safety and their adherence to the norms of the flock. However, as they witness Jonathan's transformation and growth, they ultimately come to embrace and celebrate his uniqueness and individuality. read less