Anxiety Quote by Erma Bombeck
“The art of never making a mistake is crucial to motherhood. To be effective and to gain the respect she needs to function, a mother must have her children believe she has never engaged in sex, never made a bad decision, never caused her own mother a moment's anxiety, and was never a child.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Art of Motherhood, Erma Bombeck, 1975
Motherhood is portrayed as requiring an impossible façade of perfection, demanding mothers hide any perceived flaws to earn respect and authority.
In simple terms: Mothers must appear flawless to be respected.
Key Takeaway
Accept imperfection; seek authentic respect.
Themes
parenting
identity
societal expectations
Mood
anxious
reflective
Type
advice
cautionary
When to use this quote
- family gatherings
- parent‑teacher meetings
- online parenting forums
- personal reflection
Key Concepts
gender roles
psychology of perfectionism
Questions to Reflect On
- How does the fear of showing vulnerability affect mother‑child trust?
- What realistic standards can mothers set for themselves?
A Different Perspective
The pressure to appear flawless can cause stress and alienation.
