In Behr's article, she discusses a few key elements relating to Harry's absence of parents. She discusses the transformation Lupin undergoes and how this helps Harry to harness the darkness inside of himself. Lupin becomes somewhat of a father figure to Harry in James' absence, along with many other of the male characters. She delves into these pseudo-fathers of Harry's. Behr also provides some insight into the conflicting feelings Harry has about his father when he finds out that James was not the great man Harry believed him to be.
Behr, Kate. "'Same as Difference': Narrative Transformations and Intersecting Cultures in Harry Potter". Journal of Narrative Theory 35.1 (2005): 112-132. Web.