You don't want the children to know how afraid / you are…
“You don't want the children to know how afraid / you are. You want to be sure their hold on life / is steady, sturdy. Were mothers and fathers / always this anxious, holding the ringing / receiver close to the ear: / 'Why don't they answer where could they be?”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Parents hide their own fears to protect children, seeking stability for them while dealing with personal anxiety.
In simple terms: Parents conceal fear to keep kids safe.
Acknowledge and address your anxieties openly.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- parent‑child conversations
- mental health support
- family rituals
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What fears are you masking for your children?
- How can you model healthy coping?
Denial can prevent genuine connection and healing.