The author's relationship with her mother evolved significantly over the years, particularly in the wake of family tragedies such as the death of her brother and the subsequent separation of her parents. Initially, the bond was characterized by shared musical experiences and a deep admiration for her mother's talents. However, following the traumatic loss of her brother, the family dynamic shifted dramatically. The author describes a sense of dislocation, as they "blew around like dandelion seeds," indicating a loss of stability and unity. As her mother entered a long-term relationship with Bob, the author witnessed her mother becoming the target of his jokes, which may have strained their relationship further. Despite these challenges, the underlying love and connection through music remained a vital thread, suggesting that their relationship, while complicated, was resilient and capable of evolving through shared experiences and emotional support.