Necessary Losses Short Essay Answer Key

Short Essay Answer Key

1. Why is Chapter 1 entitled, "The High Cost of Separation"?

In Chapter 1, the author discusses our absolute need for a mother in our early years. She goes on to discuss what a challenge it is for children to become distinct individuals, separate from their mothers. Viorst also suggests that extended separation can cause permanent damage.

2. Why did Art Buchwald, journalist and friend of the author, say that he understands about "scars on the brain"?

As an infant, Art Buchwald's mother died, leaving his father to raise four children alone. His father, doing the best he could, tried placing the children in a home together. Eventually, Art was separated from his siblings and lived in seven different houses in the first 16 years of life. As he grew older, he realized that in order to protect himself, he mustn't get too involved with anyone....
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