" My own mother, my sister and nearly all the women in my family had full-time jobs as mothers. They were wonderful at it. They drove their children back and forth to soccer, skating lessons, piano lessons, private schools, but I sensed, even in my own mother, a kind of distant dissatisfaction. "
- Janine di Giovanni

In this passage, Janine di Giovanni reflects on her observations of the women in her family, particularly their roles as full-time mothers. She notes that these women were dedicated and excelled in nurturing their children's various activities and educational pursuits, but she also perceived a subtle sense of dissatisfaction beneath the surface.

The deeper meaning of the quote delves into the complexities of maternal roles and societal expectations. Di Giovanni suggests that despite the apparent fulfillment derived from being a mother, there might be underlying feelings of discontent or unfulfilled desires. This could stem from the pressure to balance numerous responsibilities without adequate recognition or personal development opportunities. The author's perspective highlights a broader discussion about the challenges women face in maintaining traditional roles while yearning for more.

Janine di Giovanni is an accomplished writer known for her extensive work covering conflicts and humanitarian issues around the world. She has authored several books, including novels and non-fiction works, which often explore themes of human resilience and personal struggle. Her background as a journalist provides unique insights into societal issues, making her reflections on family roles particularly insightful.