Can't We Talk About Something More Pleasant?: A Memoir

“Who could blame them for not wanting to talk about death?

‘Let’s discuss a more pleasant subject.’”

This quote introduces the theme of Emotional Avoidance as a Coping Mechanism. Elizabeth refused to confront the topic of death, reflecting her approach to managing difficult emotions: Instead of confronting the inevitable, she preferred to shift the focus to more pleasant topics. This was a significant aspect of her personality and shaped her interactions with Chast.

“I had no nostalgia for the Carefree Days of Youth, because I never had them.”

Chast reveals significant aspects of her character and background, highlighting her lack of pleasant childhood memories. This conveys how responsibility, rather than the innocence and ease typical of childhood, marked her youth. It also sets the tone for the exploration of family dynamics throughout the memoir.

“‘Larry Carmel said to chew each bite FORTY TIMES before you swallow it!’

‘Not me! I’m a FAST CHAST!’”

This quote highlights George and Elizabeth’s contrasting personalities. George had anxieties around food, while Elizabeth had a decisive, assertive, and impatient demeanor about it, as she did about most things. This juxtaposes their differing approaches to life and highlights the dynamics within their relationship.