Mothers and Daughters; Myth and Meaning ©

Author and Linguist Deborah Tannen recently released a book titled, "You're Wearing That? Understanding Mothers and Daughters In Conversation.” In an interview with journalist, Terrence McNally, Ms. Tannen was asked of the unique relationship between mothers and daughters; the author responded as one might expect. Tannen spoke of what most consider conventional patterns of communication between the two. As I read, I realized, I could not relate.

Year ago I was an avid reader of Ms. Tannen's work; I inhaled her every word. I still think her research is infinitely valid and valuable; however, only for a select few. The few may be the majority; they are just not I. I suspect my own sisters might connect to the conclusions Linguist Tannen offers on the subject of mother daughter interactions. Still, I do not.