If mothers are our first teachers, then having a narcissistic one teaches us that human closeness is terrifying, and the world is a heartless, inconsistent place. — Koren Zailckas Copy Share Image
We are taught to believe it's bad to be angry, or at least it's not good. That's not the case all throughout the world. People are more open and not embarrassed about it. For instance in Paris, people believe Americans… — Koren Zailckas Copy Share Image
My short stature may have something to do with my tendency to shout when enraged. How else is anyone going to hear me way… — Koren Zailckas Copy Share Image
I grew up in a family that despised displays of strong emotion, rage in particular. We stewed. We sulked. When arguments did occur, they… — Koren Zailckas Copy Share Image
I think when you're 14 years old, I think you're sort of looking for markers that prove you're an adult and you're independent of… — Koren Zailckas Copy Share Image
What makes a narcissistic mother so scary? Her absolute power and controlling influence. A narcissistic mother is your only 'friend,' at least until you're… — Koren Zailckas Copy Share Image
“Instead of seeing bad in yourself, you perceive it in others. It’s a defense mechanism. One that allows people to go on believing they’re… — Koren Zailckas Copy Share Image
For the first month of school, writing is its own upper. Pounding on my computer keys feels like playing the piano, like arranging words… — Koren Zailckas Copy Share Image
Having a child doesn't make a woman a mother any more than owning a paintbrush makes her Frida Kahlo. — Koren Zailckas Copy Share Image
I'm sick of the ignorance that lack of funding has generated, of the fathers who apporach me at dinner parties with their four-year-old girls… — Koren Zailckas Copy Share Image
If mothers are our first teachers, then having a narcissistic one teaches us that human closeness is terrifying, and the world is a heartless,… — Koren Zailckas Copy Share Image
I don't know where the idea originated that memoir writing is cathartic. For me, it's always felt like playing my own neurosurgeon, sans anesthesia.… — Koren Zailckas Copy Share Image
Since I've quit drinking, I'm not sure I've found the good life, but I've certainly uncovered a better one. — Koren Zailckas Copy Share Image
