The quote from Jan Ellison's "A Small Indiscretion" highlights the deep emotional connection between a mother and her child, suggesting that a mother's happiness is tied to her child's well-being. It raises a poignant question about what happens when that child's happiness is hard to discern, particularly when they have distanced themselves both physically and emotionally. This distance can create a sense of helplessness and isolation for the mother.

Furthermore, the transformation of a child into a young man complicates the mother-child relationship, emphasizing the challenges of understanding and communication. The silence that the young man has chosen can signify struggles or personal battles, leaving the mother to grapple with uncertainty and concern, and ultimately questioning her role in his happiness.