If there were no schools to take the children away from home part of the time, the insane asylums would be filled with mothers.

In this quote, E.W. Howe, an American author and journalist, humorously points out the critical role that schools play in giving mothers a break from the demands of raising children. By saying that without schools to take children away from home, insane asylums would be filled with mothers, Howe is suggesting that the stress of constant child-rearing can drive parents, especially mothers, to the brink of mental exhaustion. Schools, in this sense, provide both an educational benefit for the children and much-needed respite for the parents.

Howe’s comment plays on the overwhelming nature of parenting, especially in times when children might be home all day. The idea that mothers might end up in insane asylums due to the stress of never-ending responsibility is an exaggeration, but it underscores the mental and emotional toll that constant child-rearing can take. The humor in Howe’s statement draws attention to the importance of having time for oneself, a concept that is still relevant in discussions of parental well-being today.

This quote reflects the societal understanding of parenting in Howe’s time, especially the burden placed on mothers. In the early 20th century, the expectations placed on mothers were often overwhelming, with little support or acknowledgment of the stress involved. Howe's words highlight the importance of balance in life—while children are a significant part of a mother’s life, their need for personal space and mental health is equally important.

Originating from Howe’s broader work on the challenges and absurdities of everyday life, this quote emphasizes the need for both parents and children to have opportunities for independence. Howe’s humor serves as a subtle commentary on the unspoken pressures placed on mothers and the societal norms that often left them to shoulder the bulk of domestic responsibilities without enough outlets for self-care or reprieve.