Parenting

Molly’s role as a parent is one of the most significant elements of her identity, and the novel explores how such a role can be both fulfilling and demoralizing. Molly loves her children and values her connection to them, but she also recognizing certain elements of parenthood that can be degrading and demoralizing. For example, when she reflects upon her breast milk, she is grateful for it as a way to nourish and bond with her children, but she also feels somewhat unnerved by the more animalistic associations: “Reminder: Mother. Reminder: Animal” (13). To elaborate, Molly’s parental responsibilities limit her personal freedom, and they also take a toll on her mental and emotional health sometimes. Occasionally, she becomes frustrated with the children’s constant needs, and she becomes both mentally and physically exhausted. However, she ultimately finds her experiences as a parent to be deeply...