[Flames0910]

Originally Posted by Flash Walken

Everything we've been told about him, from his origin, to his time in Korea to how he became "Donald Draper".

The guy is ashamed of who he really is, took the easy way out of Korea (which I probably would have), after they insinuated that the reason he was even in Korea was because he was trying to escape something.

When Pete finds out who he is, it's not only his first instinct to run, it is his initial plan of action. Only when forced to face the music does he do it, but he is largely without option after previously attempting to run away from anything and everything.

He lies, cheats, and washes it all down as a functioning alcoholic who deflects criticism onto others and generally acts like an to most people in his life. His one saving grace is ultimately the root of his cowardice; his shame.

The shame he feels in regards to his childhood gives you the moments where he is a tender and nurturing father, but I don't think many people would mistake him for a 'great' father. His shame also seems to be the source of his stoic approach to a classic sense of decorum, formality and custom, his humbling charm and his creative yearning for aesthetic idyllic ism.

The only campaigns they seem to focus on in the show are ones where Don constructs some picturesque, deeply personal narrative, but it is really all a sham for advertising. His personal life reflects his professional life in this way.

He's a deeply flawed and tragic character. The beauty of the show is that the viewer can relate to some of his faults (ie. wanting to run) and how he always seems to be so close to becoming a real person. Even though we know it's never going to happen, we're always cheering him on because it seems like deep down their's a heart in that shell.