Meaning: The quote "How old am I? I'm as old as my mother told me. How's that?" is attributed to Charles Manson, a notorious criminal and cult leader. The quote encapsulates Manson's enigmatic and manipulative personality, as well as his troubled relationship with his mother.

Charles Manson was born on November 12, 1934, in Cincinnati, Ohio, to a teenage mother named Kathleen Maddox. His early life was marked by instability and neglect, as his mother struggled with poverty and personal issues. She was frequently absent, and Manson was often placed in the care of relatives or juvenile detention centers. This tumultuous upbringing had a profound impact on Manson's psyche, influencing his worldview and shaping his criminal behavior in later years.

The quote reflects Manson's ambiguous relationship with his own age and identity. By stating that he is "as old as my mother told me," Manson hints at the lack of a clear, stable sense of self. His identity is intertwined with the narrative constructed by his mother, suggesting a deep-seated psychological reliance on her words and perceptions. This dependency on maternal influence may have contributed to Manson's distorted view of reality and his ability to manipulate and control others.

Manson's upbringing and the impact of his mother's influence are essential factors in understanding his criminal behavior and the formation of the Manson Family cult. His troubled childhood and the absence of consistent parental guidance likely contributed to his development of manipulative and charismatic traits, which he later exploited to establish a cult following.

The quote also hints at Manson's inclination to challenge societal norms and provoke introspection. By posing the question "How's that?" Manson invites the listener to consider the implications of his statement. He subtly challenges the conventional understanding of age and identity, suggesting that these concepts are fluid and subject to interpretation. This provocative stance aligns with Manson's penchant for subversion and his desire to disrupt established beliefs and values.

Manson's criminal activities, including his involvement in the notorious Tate-LaBianca murders in 1969, shocked the world and solidified his reputation as a sinister and manipulative figure. His ability to exert control over his followers and inspire them to commit heinous acts underscored his mastery of psychological manipulation, a skill likely honed through his troubled relationship with his mother and his experiences in institutional settings.

In conclusion, the quote "How old am I? I'm as old as my mother told me. How's that?" encapsulates Charles Manson's complex and enigmatic personality, reflecting his troubled relationship with his mother, his psychological manipulation, and his propensity for challenging societal norms. Understanding the influence of Manson's upbringing and maternal guidance is crucial to comprehending the formation of his criminal behavior and the lasting impact of his actions on society.