Children of course are monstrously conventional, repelled at once by whatever is off-center, out of whack, unmanageable. And being an only child I had been coddled a good deal {also scolded}. I was awkward, precocious, timid, full of my private rituals and aversions.
Children often adhere strictly to societal norms, shunning anything that deviates from the expected. The author reflects on her experience as an only child, highlighting a duality in her upbringing; although she was cherished and cared for, she also faced discipline. This upbringing led to her feeling out of place, as she struggled with her unique personality traits and sensitivities.
Her description of being awkward yet precocious illustrates the complexity of childhood. With her own set of personal rituals and strong dislikes, she exemplifies how children can be both sheltered and challenged by their differences. This internal conflict is further emphasized by her timid nature, suggesting that conformity and individuality can often clash in the formative years.