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Frozen Quote by Jennifer Givhan

“My god is frozen-mouth. She is get-out-of-this-town- or-hell-freezes-over. She is paycheck to paycheck. Each night when she goes to bed, my god kisses her kids’ clean faces, then, thanking herself, her own.” quote by Jennifer Givhan
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““My god is frozen-mouth. She is get-out-of-this-town- or-hell-freezes-over. She is paycheck to paycheck. Each night when she goes to bed, my god kisses her kids’ clean faces, then, thanking herself, her own.””

Jennifer Givhan

About This Quote

Source Poem: “Frozen‑Mouth” in The New Yorker, 2023

A mother’s god is harsh, but love persists; she endures hardship while caring for her children.

In simple terms: A mother’s love endures despite a harsh deity.

Key Takeaway

Find strength in love amid hardship.

Themes

poverty faith parenthood

Mood

somber empathetic

Type

poetic social commentary

When to use this quote

  • single parent support groups
  • financial aid programs

Key Concepts

resilience spiritual struggle

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does “frozen‑mouth” symbolize for you?
  • How can you support those facing similar struggles?
A Different Perspective

The metaphor may alienate readers unfamiliar with the imagery.

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