Why does Vladek throw away Art's coat?

There is a disconnect between father and son. Art seems to be more interested in documenting this project rather than listening to what his father is experiencing now. I think Vladek feels impotent in his relationship with his son. He throws Art's coat away under the pre tense that it is shoddy. I think he merely wants his son's attention. Art should actually listen to his father's present rather than only his past.