In the novel "Middlesex" by Jeffrey Eugenides, the author explores the complex role parents play in shaping their children's lives beyond just physical traits. While it is true that children inherit physical features from their parents, Eugenides argues that parents also pass down various influences, such as behaviors and life circumstances, that can significantly impact a child's future. This perspective suggests that parental influence extends far into the realms of personality and fate.

The statement highlights the multifaceted nature of inheritance, emphasizing that children are not merely a reflection of their parents’ physical attributes. Instead, they absorb a wide range of influences that shape their identities and life paths. This broader understanding of inheritance encourages readers to consider the lasting effects of familial dynamics and the environment on individual destinies, making it clear that parental roles are deeply intertwined with the entirety of a child's life experiences.