Chapter Thirty-eight

Contains spoilers

Summary

  • Angelina, presumably a therapist, revisits two topics from a previous session: the need to end conversations with "I love you" and the significance of the name Maame.
  • The protagonist, Maddie, chooses to first discuss the issue surrounding the need to express love verbally.
  • Angelina links Maddie's behavior to a craving for love, suggesting it impacts her mental health by leading to people-pleasing behavior.
  • Maddie agrees with Angelina's assessment and reflects on the nature of being "well-loved" versus being "well-liked."
  • Maddie considers the strong love she receives from two individuals, Nia and Shu, recollecting instances that demonstrate their deep care for her.
  • She recognizes that, despite lacking expressions of love from some sources, she is indeed well-loved by her friends.
  • They then discuss the name Maame. Maddie's initial negative feelings towards the name have evolved, and she now views it with a layered perspective.
  • Maddie acknowledges that although the name came with pressures, it also provided comfort and learning experiences, helping her define her identity.
  • Angelina responds positively to Maddie's reflection on the name Maame, marking a moment of understanding and revelation.
  • The chapter ends with a brief exchange between Nia and Maddie about looking for a nice place to live, to which Maddie responds with enthusiasm.
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