" My father’s life was so decimated by his earliest experiences. His mother died when he was 7 years old, which he always said was the worst experience in his life. When he was 8, his father disappeared and he was on his own from the age of 8. "
- Walter Mosley

The quote describes the challenging early life experiences faced by Walter Mosley's father. It highlights that his mother passed away when he was just seven years old, an event he described as the most difficult moment of his childhood. Shortly after, at eight years old, his father disappeared, leaving him alone to fend for himself from a very young age.

This quote delves into the profound impact early traumatic experiences can have on one's life trajectory and psyche. The loss of both parents in such a short span of time during a formative period could lead to significant emotional and psychological scars that might persist throughout adulthood. It also underscores the resilience required to navigate through such adversity, often shaping an individual’s character and worldview profoundly.

Walter Mosley is a renowned American author celebrated for his detective fiction and literary works. He is best known for writing about characters from African American communities in urban settings, blending elements of crime stories with rich social commentary. The quote reflects the deep personal history that has informed Mosley's understanding of human resilience and the complexities of life experiences.