Born Quote by Susan Orlean
“When my son was born, and after a day of lying-in I was told that I could leave the hospital and take him home, I burst into tears. It wasn't the emotion of the moment: it was shock and horror.”
About This Quote
The speaker experienced an overwhelming, visceral reaction to the reality of parenthood, feeling shock and horror rather than simple joy.
In simple terms: Parenthood can provoke deep, unsettling emotions.
Key Takeaway
Birth can trigger profound, unexpected feelings.
Themes
parenthood
emotional shock
responsibility
identity
vulnerability
Mood
awe
disquiet
intensity
Type
personal anecdote
reflective observation
When to use this quote
- new parents processing birth
- hospital discharge moments
- first encounters with infant care
Key Concepts
life transition
psychological impact
Practical Applications
- counseling for new parents
- parenthood education programs
Questions to Reflect On
- How do societal expectations shape our emotional responses to birth?
- What does this shock reveal about personal readiness for parenthood?
