In Norman Mailer's "The Castle in the Forest," a complex emotional interplay is depicted between a son and his mother. The son expresses a sense of pride in having evoked tears from his mother, suggesting a moment of personal triumph. This act of emotional confrontation marks a shift in their relationship, where he feels it is essential for her to experience vulnerability while he remains composed.
The quote emphasizes the son's desire to assert control over the emotional dynamics within their relationship. He believes it is time for his mother to understand and perhaps face the consequences of her actions, rather than him constantly bearing the emotional burden. This moment reflects a deeper theme of learning and growth, as well as a struggle for emotional independence.