In the following passage, a middle-aged man named Harold navigates the complexity of his relationships with his aging parents. As he reflects on their lives and his own choices, he finds himself caught between duty and his personal aspirations. The narrative unfolds in a series of flashbacks and present-day interactions, revealing the tensions simmering beneath the surface.
Consider the structure of the passage and how it contributes to the overall development of Harold's character. Which of the following options best describes a significant aspect of the plot structure in the narrative?