“My parents were two-faced. To me, they showed no mercy. They preached from theBook of Fallen Children - Commandment 1: The Child Is Always Ungrateful. At eighteen, the free ride would stop, and I'd be dumped into the mess of the world. But in their private moments, they were soft, cowed by love. They critiqued their own parenting skills and thought of all the ways the could help their kids get ahead.”

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About Ta-Nehisi Coates

American essayist and journalist, 21st century His work centers on race, history, and the American experience, blending sharp analysis with personal reflection. Known for essays like *Between the World and Me* and his contributions to *The Atlantic*, he explores systemic inequality and the legacy of slavery.

More from Ta-Nehisi Coates (208 quotes) →
"My parents were two-faced. To me, they showed no mercy. They preached…" — Ta-Nehisi Coates | Daily Quotes