To shift the structure of a sentence alters the meaning of that sentence, as definitely and inflexibly as the position of a camera alters the meaning of the object photographed.
Joan DidionRead
When I began writing these pages I believed their subject to be children, the ones we have and the ones we wish we had, the ways in which we depend on our children to depend on us, the ways in which we encourage them to remain children, the ways in which they remain more unknown to us than they do to their more casual acquaintances; the ways in which we remain equally opaque to them.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote reflects on the complex relationship between parents and children, emphasizing the mutual dependence and lack of understanding in that bond.
Joan Didion's quote delves into the intricate dynamics of the parent-child relationship. It highlights how parents often perceive their children and their needs, while also touching on the ways children see their parents. Didion suggests that both parties have their own mysteries and complexities that are often overlooked, leading to a deeper commentary on the challenge of truly understanding one another within familial bonds.
Themes
FamilyChildrenUnderstandingRelationshipsParenting
In practice
Example use cases
A parent might use this quote in a speech about the challenges of raising children.
More from Joan Didion
All quotes →The truth is, it's easier for me to write than talk... to express the state I'm in at any time.
Joan DidionRead
Memories are what you no longer want to remember.
Joan DidionRead
It was clear, for example, in 1988 that the political process had already become perilously remote from the electorate it was meant to represent.
Joan DidionRead
I mean maybe I was holding all the aces, but what was the game?
Joan DidionRead
Do not whine... Do not complain. Work harder. Spend more time alone.
Joan DidionRead
Similar quotes
I grew up in the large house and the larger garden of my parents in Altenberg. They were supremely tolerant of my inordinate love for animals.
Konrad LorenzRead
Being a husband is for me as big a priority as being a father.
Roger FedererRead
No parent should have their child die before he or she does.
Phil KnightRead
Remembering how my mother looked before she gave birth to my sister is frightening. But even more frightening is the feeling that I wanted them to catch me and beat me. Why did I want to be punished? Shadows out of the past clutch at my legs and drag me down. I open my mouth to scream, but I am voiceless. My hands are trembling, I feel cold, and there is a distant humming in my ears.
Daniel KeyesRead
It is impossible to overestimate the influence of parents who understand the hearts of their children. Research shows that during the most important transitions of life—including those periods when youth are most likely to drift away from the Church—the greatest influence does not come from an interview with the bishop or some other leader but from the regular, warm, friendly, caring interaction with parents.
Robert D. HalesRead
Contention in our families drives the Spirit of the Lord away. It also drives many of our family members away. Contention ranges from a hostile spoken word to worldwide conflicts. The scriptures tell us that "Only by pride cometh contention".
Ezra Taft BensonRead