In Nick Hornby's "How to Be Good," the author explores the complex emotions surrounding guilt and mental health in familial relationships. While guilt is often perceived as detrimental to one’s mental well-being, Hornby suggests that those who experience no guilt in their relationships may actually be the unhealthiest. The implication is that genuine connection with parents often requires frequent communication and closeness, which can lead to various strains and complications in one’s life.

The paradox lies in the fact that while guilt can be harmful, it also serves as a sign of a more complex, perhaps healthier emotional landscape. Hornby presents a choice between living with a sense of persistent guilt or engaging in an unhealthy level of closeness that might require constant contact with parents. Ultimately, he concludes that accepting guilt is a more rational choice than facing the alternative of an overly enmeshed relationship with one’s family.