From the archive: Foreign mothers, foreign tongues: ‘In another universe, she could have been my friend’

From the archive: Foreign mothers, foreign tongues: ‘In another universe, she could have been my friend’

From The Audio Long Read by The Guardian

April 15, 2026 · 35 min

About this episode

Dina Nayeri reflects on her relationship with her mother and the cultural clashes they experienced as she raises her own daughter.

We are raiding the Guardian long read archives to bring you some classic pieces from years past, with new introductions from the authors. This week, from 2023: Having grown up in different cultures with different expectations, my mother and I have often clashed. But as my daughter grows older, I have come to see our relationship in a different light Written and read by Dina Nayeri. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/longreadpod

People in this episode

Guest: Dina Nayeri

Topics covered

  • mother-daughter relationship
  • cultural differences
  • personal growth
  • identity
  • family dynamics

Keywords

  • foreign mothers
  • foreign tongues
  • cultural expectations
  • relationship
  • personal narrative

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: The Guardian

More episodes of The Audio Long Read

Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the The Audio Long Read podcast page.