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Children Quote by Barry Eisler

“I might have asked for her number. I could have told her my visit had been extended, something like that. She was too young, but I liked the way she made me feel. She provoked a confusing mix of emotions: affinity based on the shared experiences of mixed blood and childhood bereavement; a…” quote by Barry Eisler
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““I might have asked for her number. I could have told her my visit had been extended, something like that. She was too young, but I liked the way she made me feel. She provoked a confusing mix of emotions: affinity based on the shared experiences of mixed blood and childhood bereavement; a paternalistic urge to protect her from the mistakes she was going to make; a sad sexual longing that was like an elegy for Midori.””

Barry Eisler

About This Quote

Source Novel: Rain Fall, Barry Eisler, 2009

The narrator reflects on a complex, conflicted attraction to a younger woman, mixing protective instincts, shared trauma, and a melancholy sexual longing.

In simple terms: Mixed feelings of protectiveness, shared past, and sad desire.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and examine conflicted emotions.

Themes

love protectiveness trauma desire age gap

Mood

conflicted melancholic thoughtful

Type

literary character study psychological

When to use this quote

  • personal relationships
  • family dynamics
  • ethical dilemmas
  • self‑reflection

Key Concepts

psychology ethical ambiguity memory identity

Questions to Reflect On

  • What boundaries should guide attractions with power imbalances?
  • How does shared trauma influence romantic feelings?
A Different Perspective

Such attractions can be ethically problematic and may cause harm.

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