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When I first had a child, I really had a hard time trying…

“When I first had a child, I really had a hard time trying to figure out how it was all going to fit together. Because I felt like, when I was with him, I wanted to be writing and I should be writing. And when I was writing, I felt like I should be with him, and wanted to be with him. So I was…” quote by Jennifer Egan
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“When I first had a child, I really had a hard time trying to figure out how it was all going to fit together. Because I felt like, when I was with him, I wanted to be writing and I should be writing. And when I was writing, I felt like I should be with him, and wanted to be with him. So I was unhappy a lot.”

Jennifer Egan

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Balancing parental duties with creative work creates tension and feelings of inadequacy.

In simple terms: Parenting and writing compete for attention.

Key Takeaway

Set realistic expectations and schedule dedicated time for each.

Themes

parenting creativity work‑life balance

Mood

reflective empathetic

Type

advice personal narrative

When to use this quote

  • new parent
  • writing deadline
  • family time
  • self‑care

Key Concepts

role conflict time management

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you protect creative time without neglecting family?
  • What boundaries help you feel present?
A Different Perspective

Balancing both may still leave guilt.

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