Character Analysis
The relationship between Deirdre and Rojack is one the novel's most complex, despite the fact that it barely takes up any page-time.
Actually, Rojack sums up their relationship perfectly when he says that Deirdre was "the only agreeable part of [his] marriage; for that reason [he] tried to see her as little as possible now" (1.71). Rojack is so full of self-hatred at this point that he would rather fight with Deborah (whom he sort of hates) then spend time with Deirdre (whom he sort of loves). In his preference for Deborah, it's clear he's more comfortable with the bad than the good.
To be honest, we are a bit surprised when Deirdre turns out to be a pretty cool girl. She's intelligent beyond her years, tossing out nuggets of wisdom ("people want to make love after a death" (8.93)) like they were pieces of candy. We completely understand why Rojack is so fond of her—we're even considering starting a Deirdre fan club.
There's just one last thing that we have to mention, though, no matter how unpleasant it might be. Time and time again, we're reminded of similarities between Rojack and Kelly—and their relationships with their daughters are no exception. In this context, Rojack and Deirdre's affectionate relationship takes on some deeply upsetting subtexts.
Given this, it almost seems as if Rojack makes the right decision in not seeing Deirdre. It's all really confusing, we know, but so it goes in An American Dream—new answers simply lead to new questions.