What are some common themes in 'mother daughter horror stories'?

One common theme is misunderstandings. For example, when the daughter misinterprets what the mother says and does something completely hilarious as a result. Like when my mom said 'dress up' for a family dinner, I thought she meant in a princess costume. I showed up in a tiara and a big ballgown while everyone else was in normal clothes.

Another theme is the search for identity. The daughter often tries to define herself apart from her mother, but at the same time realizes that her mother has a big influence on her identity. In stories like 'Two Kinds', the daughter struggles with the identity her mother wants for her and the one she wants for herself.

Acceptance is a common theme. The mother has to accept herself as a lesbian and the daughter has to accept her mother's identity. Another theme is love. Despite any external difficulties, the love between them remains strong. For example, in some stories, the mother's family might initially be against their relationship, but their love overcomes this.

A third common theme is growth and understanding. As the story progresses, the characters, especially the daughters, often grow and come to a better understanding of their mothers. In 'A Pair of Tickets', the daughter's journey to China leads to a new understanding of her mother and their relationship.

A common theme is also the passing on of values. Mothers usually try to pass on their values, whether it's cultural, moral or family - related, to their daughters. Sometimes the daughters resist, but in the end, they may come to appreciate these values. Also, the theme of sacrifice is there. Mothers often sacrifice a lot for their daughters, and this is often explored in mother - daughter short stories.

Conflict is also very common. Differences in values, expectations, and generational gaps often lead to conflicts between mothers and daughters. Like in 'Two Kinds', the mother wants the daughter to be a prodigy in a certain way, but the daughter resists.

A major theme is often related to inheritance. The daughter - in - law might be overly concerned with getting a larger share of the family inheritance and start creating problems. Also, jealousy can be a theme. If the in - laws seem to favor another family member, the daughter - in - law can become jealous and act out in negative ways, like being cold or hostile towards them.

One common theme is misunderstanding. For example, the mother might not understand the daughter's modern values or career choices, leading to conflict and sadness. Another theme is separation, like when the mother has to move away for work or due to some family issues, leaving the daughter behind. Also, illness can be a theme. If the mother or daughter gets seriously ill, it can cause great sadness in their relationship as they face the possibility of loss.

One common topic is fashion. Mothers and daughters often share their love for clothes, go shopping together, and give each other fashion advice.

One common theme is over - interference. Future mother - in - laws often try to interfere in the couple's relationship, like deciding when they should have kids or how they should manage their finances.