The big difference between my mom and me-- besides the fact that she is dead normal and I'm a magic-handling freak-- is that she's the real thing. She may have a slight problem seeing other people's points of view, but she's about it. She's a brass-bound bitch because she believes she knows best. I'm a brass-bound bitch because I don't want anyone getting close enough to find out what a whiny little knot of naked nerve endings I really am.
The speaker reflects on the contrasting personalities of herself and her mother. She describes her mother as an ordinary person who is confident and steadfast in her beliefs, though perhaps lacking in empathy. The mother's strong-willed nature is admirable, as she is fully authentic in her approach to life.
In contrast, the speaker acknowledges her own emotional vulnerabilities and defense mechanisms. While she also displays a tough exterior, her bravado is a shield to protect her sensitive nature, revealing a deeper struggle with self-identity and openness. This juxtaposition highlights the complexities of their characters and their differing ways of navigating the world.
