“I did love her, of course, but mostly because loving your mom is mandatory, not because she was someone I think I'd like very much if I met her walking down the street.”
Quote Analysis:
In this quote, the author Ransom Riggs reflects on the complexity of the mother-child relationship. He admits that he loved his mother out of obligation, as societal norms dictate, rather than a genuine fondness for her as a person. This candid admission sheds light on the conflicted emotions that can exist within family dynamics.
The Complexities of Family Relationships
In this quote by Ransom Riggs, the speaker reflects on the mandatory love that comes with being a parent, regardless of the personal connection or compatibility. This sentiment can be relevant in modern times as we navigate the complexities of family relationships and societal expectations. Many individuals may feel obligated to love their family members, even if they do not necessarily like or relate to them on a personal level. This quote highlights the nuanced nature of familial love and how it can be shaped by duty rather than genuine affection.
Quote from Ransom Riggs
In this quote, Ransom Riggs reflects on the obligatory nature of love between a child and their mother, even if they may not necessarily like them as a person.
Reflection Questions:
Reflecting on this quote by Ransom Riggs, consider the following questions to delve deeper into the complexities of relationships, particularly with parents:
Have you ever felt obligated to love someone, such as a family member, even though you may not particularly like or connect with them?
How do societal expectations and norms influence our relationships with family members, especially parents?
What role does unconditional love play in parent-child relationships, and how does it affect our perception of these individuals?
How can we navigate feelings of obligation versus genuine affection in our relationships with our parents and other family members?
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“deep down...she's a good woman...you should be proud of her." When I told my mom about this, she just looked very sad because he could never say those things to her. Not ever. Not even when he walked her down the aisle.”
“She took no pleasure from the very things I loved, from her size, her amplitude, her luscious, zaftig heft. As many times as I told her she was beautiful, I know that she never believed me. As many times as I said it didn’t matter, I knew that to her it did. I was just one voice, and the world’s voice was louder. I could feel her shame like a palpable thing, walking beside us on the street, crouched down between us in a movie theater, coiled up and waiting for someone to say what to her was the dirtiest word in the world: fat.”
“The police seemed to think I killed her, which is crazy, because I loved her like a thousand drops of blood dripping down a dagger.”
“She said I was the most sensitive boy she'd ever met, whichI didn't understand because really all I did was not interrupt her.”
“And you, Mom. I loved you. You've asked if i felt and understood that you loved me. of course I did. And you know this. I loved your love because it kept me safe and happy and wanted, and it existed beyond words and hugs and eyes.”