In the book "Naked" by David Sedaris, the author reflects on the differences in how his grandparents interacted with him compared to others. While some grandparents would ask about his school grades or favorite possessions, his grandmother, Ya Ya, had a more pragmatic view of childhood. She seemed to perceive childhood as a mere waiting period until children could contribute to the family financially.
Ya Ya's focus on work and money highlights a generational difference in values. For her, childhood wasn't a time for exploration or enjoyment, but rather a necessary phase that eventually led to adult responsibilities. This perspective underscores the practical realities many faced, implying that financial stability held greater importance than emotional connections or personal interests.