In a reflective piece, Gwyneth Lewis recounts her complex relationship with her mother, Eryl, who was a respected English teacher but emotionally abusive at home. Eryl’s criticism and demands for silence often stifled Gwyneth’s desire to write, leading to a struggle with self-confidence. Though they collaborated on poetry, Gwyneth felt overshadowed by Eryl’s corrections and pressure to succeed, especially during their participation in national competitions. This dynamic caused Gwyneth to rebel against writing at 17, seeking independence from her mother’s influence. After attending universities in America, she gradually learned to trust her own voice, freeing herself from Eryl’s critical shadow. Ultimately, the journey highlighted the challenges of navigating creativity within a fraught familial relationship.
