Cousin Quote by Susan Juby
““People never like to talk about their slower relatives. I got a cousin, twice removed, got webs between his toes, ain't said one word his whole life. You never hear about him in the family newsletter that goes around every Christmas. Hell, nobody mentions me, either, if it comes to that. Families is funny about who they advertise.””
About This Quote
The quote highlights how families selectively share stories, often omitting members who are perceived as different or inconvenient, revealing a bias toward idealized narratives.
In simple terms: Families curate their public image.
Key Takeaway
Selective storytelling shapes perception.
Themes
family dynamics
social stigma
identity
memory
narrative control
Mood
reflective
somber
critical
Type
observation
social commentary
When to use this quote
- family gatherings
- holiday newsletters
- genealogical research
- personal memoirs
Key Concepts
exclusion
image management
intergenerational silence
Practical Applications
- writing inclusive family histories
- raising awareness of hidden family members
Questions to Reflect On
- How does selective memory affect family identity?
- What are the consequences of silencing certain members?
