Discuss the themes of Motherhood that are so prevalent in this graphic nonfiction novel.

The theme of Motherhood is explored from several angles, both from Bechdel's viewpoint, and in some respects from Helen's. For the first half of the work, Bechdel can only view her mother from the viewpoint of a daughter, a child, longing for the loving touch of her mother. When she does not receive it, she throws a tantrum (albeit an adult one). Later, when she begins to see her mother as a person, whose dreams were never realized because of the sacrifices she was called upon to make, she is able to let go of her need for her mother's validation and support.

From Helen's standpoint, motherhood was an institution of slavery and forced ignominy. She disliked giving up the theatre, and in the end, was bitter and resentful. This colored all of...