I've reread my own post and I think I have an idea. The gentleman does not read fiction, has not read it in years, only reads political and science-y stuff but if I give him a book to read, I am sure he will read it, and "The Little Prince" is a short book. Maybe give him the book, ask him to talk to me upon reading it, and tell him that I now feel that I have tamed him and am forever responsible but that at the same time I need to take care of my own self, too? This way at least he will know that I DO feel responsible.