Quotes from Autumn Stephens

Too often, we try to extort from chosen others the fierce genetic loyalty we long for from our parents and feel for our kids. The fact is, even though our individual DNAs may conjoin to form a zygote and in due time a unique, freestanding being, we remain literally and existentially separate, our union perfect only apart from ourselves.

No woman was an island. Together, we were an archipelago; together, we were a goddamn continent.

To be well mated, zipped to another soul, is only one of many permutations of being human, both an abatement of suffering and a small, abiding embarrassment at finding respite this time around. It makes this life especially precious, and the certainty of its ending terribly sad.