Of course we feel that way!
I have never seen the musical, but I've heard the soundtrack, seen the silent film, and read the book. It is easy to become obsessed with the tale, and I think we all feel connected to the Phantom. He is the epitomy of dejection, tragedy, and longing. Anyone who has experienced these will sympathize with the Opera Ghost.
Phantom of the Opera-different version
I feel exactly the same way about him, as though he is a real person. I start arguing and shouting at anybody who dares to 'diss' him...I get very passionate about the whole thing. Another version of 'The Phantom' that was absolutely brilliant is Susan Kay's 'Phantom'. It's about Erik's childhood, what he did as he was growing up, etc, before he went to the Opera House. It continues the story right up until, and even after, he dies. I preferred the ending of this particular book than the original Gaston Leroux one because, not to spoil anything, but it's just so much...well, nicer, in my opinion. Christine actually loves him, and wants to be with him, rather than yearning to get away. I really wanted her to love Erik in Leroux's version, but she doesn't, not in the way I wanted her to. Trust me, read this version...you won't regret it.