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Am Quote by Tess Gerritsen

“I raised two sons, and I know that even though they're bigger and stronger than I am, they're still little boys inside. They still cry, they still hurt. So whenever I write a male character, no matter how 'heroic' he may be, I think of my sons. And I remember that every man was once a little boy.” quote by Tess Gerritsen
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“I raised two sons, and I know that even though they're bigger and stronger than I am, they're still little boys inside. They still cry, they still hurt. So whenever I write a male character, no matter how 'heroic' he may be, I think of my sons. And I remember that every man was once a little boy.”

Tess Gerritsen

About This Quote

Source Interview: Author Talk, 2020

The author reflects on the lingering childlike vulnerability in men, reminding writers to portray male characters with emotional depth.

In simple terms: Men retain inner childlike feelings despite outward strength.

Key Takeaway

Write male characters with empathy and emotional honesty.

Themes

parenthood empathy masculinity

Mood

reflective empathetic

Type

narrative inspirational

When to use this quote

  • character development
  • parenting
  • mental health
  • storytelling
  • film

Key Concepts

psychology growth vulnerability

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you balance strength and sensitivity in a character?
  • What experiences reveal a man's inner child?
A Different Perspective

Some audiences may resist non‑traditional male archetypes.

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