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Again Quote by Will Self

“I've said it before - and I'll say it again: it always seems to me that we come to know our same-sex parents through the bodily and the involuntary; through a kind of fossicking of our own physical strata. As we come to resemble our fathers, so we re-encounter the individual who reared us.” quote by Will Self
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“I've said it before - and I'll say it again: it always seems to me that we come to know our same-sex parents through the bodily and the involuntary; through a kind of fossicking of our own physical strata. As we come to resemble our fathers, so we re-encounter the individual who reared us.”

Will Self

About This Quote

Source Essay: “The Sexes” by Will Self, 1994

Understanding one's parents involves recognizing how our bodies and instincts reflect them, revealing deeper connections through physical similarity.

In simple terms: We learn about parents by noticing bodily resemblances.

Key Takeaway

Observe and reflect on how your physical traits echo your parents.

Themes

identity family psychology self‑discovery

Mood

introspective thoughtful

Type

analytical reflective

When to use this quote

  • parent‑child relationships
  • therapy sessions
  • personal reflection
  • genetic counseling

Key Concepts

psychoanalysis embodiment intergenerational patterns

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do your physical traits shape your perception of your parents?
  • Can bodily similarity mask deeper relational issues?
A Different Perspective

Physical resemblance may oversimplify complex emotional bonds.

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