In the first part of the quote, the speaker describes their physical appearance as muscular, attributing this feature directly to an early training regime imposed by her mother. This training was focused on learning how to straighten one's spine properly and included a strict approach that emphasized discipline and control.
The deeper meaning of this statement lies in its exploration of the relationship between personal development and familial influence. The speaker reflects on the impact of their mother’s dictatorial attitude, suggesting that while it may have been difficult to reconcile with her authoritative methods at the time, the long-term benefits were significant. The ability to “disguise what I had” implies a level of mastery over one's physical appearance and possibly an emotional distance from the original source of this skill. This quote highlights the complex interplay between parental guidance, personal growth, and the eventual independence that comes with mastering one’s own body and identity.
Toyah Willcox is an English singer, songwriter, actress, and author known for her contributions to punk rock and new wave music in the late 1970s and early 1980s. She has been a prominent figure in the British entertainment industry and continues to be active in various artistic endeavors, including writing and activism related to environmental issues and animal welfare.