Eyes & Teeth by Victoria Craig

"My mama had raised us to believe that that way of thinking was sick. And now I was filled with shame. Why wasn’t my mother taking her to task?"

victoriacraig — 2023-10-03 17:54:37 UTC

This quote is interesting because the narrator is not only disappointed in her aunt for her backwards thinking, but also at her mother for letting this go without a fight. As the reader, this made me dislike her mother just as much as Buzz's.

"We’ve been warned to stay out of the front room, and keep our noise down or suffer a spanking. I’m bold enough to think I can hide right under mama’s nose and get away with it."

victoriacraig — 2023-10-03 18:34:23 UTC

Rebellion is a natural part of coming of age, and the narrator is no different. While it may seem childlike, she is actually testing the boundaries her mother has put in to place. This boldness is part of growing up, especially the idea of trying to get around punishment.

“I’m so glad this baby didn’t turn out black and ugly like Buzz."

victoriacraig — 2023-10-03 18:48:00 UTC

While my mother has never said anything this terrible about me, there's been times where I've been saddened by mean-spirited comments she's made about me. Mothers are supposed to be loving and supportive, so I can definitely empathize with Buzz's disappointment.

"Then Buzz showed up at the services with a beautiful young wife, two babies, and a new car. Seems he’s holding his own among the black middle class."

victoriacraig — 2023-10-03 19:04:02 UTC

I'm glad that Buzz was able to overcome what his mother said and go on to have a full, beautiful life. This article about parental emotional abuse told me that most children who experience parental rejection struggle in life and can become emotionally unstable with low self-esteem. From the closing part of the text, it looks like Buzz was able to avoid the fate of many children whose parents don't show them the love they deserve.