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About this quote

What does it mean?
Mothers eventually catch up to their children, proving right; consequences arise from actions they didn't even realize they did.
In plain terms
Parents eventually see the results of their children's unseen actions.
What can you take from it?
Unseen actions have real consequences that may be revealed later.

Where it applies

  • family dynamics
  • personal reflection

Putting it to work

  • reflect on hidden impacts
  • communicate openly with children

Questions to consider

  • How do hidden actions shape family relationships?
  • What can be done to recognize unseen impacts early?

Another view

The phrasing is ambiguous and may not apply universally.

More from Margaret Atwood

  1. The truly fearless think of themselves as normal.

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  2. War is what happens when language fails.

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  3. The Eskimo has fifty-two names for snow because it is important to them; there ought to be as many for love.

    Permalink to quote #82

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