Vito Corleone's Perspective on Joey Zasa: A Mafia Mindset

In The Godfather, Vito Corleone would view Joey Zasa with disdain and an understanding that his actions would be counterproductive. Unlike the reasons for the eventual demise of Frank Pentangeli in The Godfather Part II, Vito would not resort to deadly measures immediately. Instead, he would seek to maintain the family's interests and legacy by ensuring that associates such as Zasa do not jeopardize the delicate balance of power and tradition that the Corleones uphold.

Reasoning vs. Action

Vito, a master of reasoning and understanding human nature, would first try to communicate his concerns to Joey. However, as evidenced by Joey's decision to ignore his advice, Vito would realize that his advice would fall on deaf ears. This realization would lead Vito to limit his association with Joey, ensuring that any future dealings between them would be separated and thus more manageable.

A Scarlett Pimpernel of the Mafia World

Joey Zasa would remind Vito of figures such as John Gotti, known for their boastfulness and drawing unnecessary attention. Vito, a master of subtlety and cautious expansion, would be wary of someone who seems to revel in the limelight and seeks constant validation through public recognition and notoriety. Vito, who prided himself on maintaining a low profile and adhering to strict codes of behavior, would likely view such behavior as reckless and unwise.

Black Marks and Unwavering Fortitude

While Vito would acknowledge and respect Joey's ability to attract attention and recruit members into his crew, his perception would be tainted by the rampant involvement in drug activities. For Vito, involvement in the drug trade was not just a black mark but a serious betrayal of the family's stature and principles. The recognition that Joey sought would be far outweighed by the scandal and risk associated with such activities.

Negative Sentiment and Strategic Dealing

Vito would not shy away from using Joey Zasa in strategic deals, especially those unrelated to drugs. However, he would be careful in ensuring that any such association would not be detrimental to the family's interests. In a way, Vito would see Joey as a pragmatic business partner, albeit one heavily burdened by moral and legal issues.

Unwavering Traditions and Respect for Elders

Vito would also view Joey's disregard for tradition and respect toward elders with disdain. Much like how Frank Pentangeli was perceived by Vito, Joey would be seen as a figure who has lost his way, not respecting the legacy and codes that shaped the Corleone family. This disdain would be characterized by a certain cool detachment, reflecting Vito's own calculated and cerebral approach to leadership.

Conclusion

In essence, Vito Corleone would judge Joey Zasa as a complex individual with both utilitarian value and potential for disarray. His perspective would be one of cautious exploitation and careful avoidance, balancing the necessity of exploiting Zasa's talents with the need to protect the family's legacy and interests from any form of reckless behavior.