She upset Billy simply by being his mother. She made him feel embarrased and ungrateful and weak because she had gone to so much trouble to give him life, and to keep that life going, and Billy didn't really like life at all.

Summary

This quote encapsulates the complicated relationship between Billy and his mother. It suggests that the very existence of his mother, despite her efforts to ensure his well-being, brings negative emotions to Billy. He feels ashamed, unappreciative, and powerless. Despite her sacrifices, Billy doesn't find joy in life, leading to a disjointed connection. This quote highlights the intricate dynamics of a strained mother-child relationship, where love and care intertwine with personal dissatisfaction and emotional dissonance.

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