I think you're confused because you're trying to please him at your own expense. Maybe you don't know what you want to say because you're afraid that whatever you express will cause tension or not be the "right" answer. Meanwhile, he's probably picked up on this, and it may feel like pressure to him...almost as if your wants, needs and desires totally depend on him and his mood. So, it creates this vicious cycle. I strongly suggest getting out of the house. If there is a park nearby, take your son for a walk. Or, try a new museum. And, when you're out by yourself, try to talk to someone you don't know (try a woman, just to be safe)...what kind of conversation can you have with someone who is not that important to you? It may be an easier way to practice having a conversation with your own point of view. Don't worry, I do a bit of this when things are tense with my boyfriend...but, mostly because I'm very direct and blunt but later fear that I've gone to far...then, to back-step, I get all passive and unsure...I also suggest reading....knowledge is power...make CNN or BBC your homepage and try to read all of the "first page" articles when you log on...who cares why the turkey is pink when you can explain the current political climate in Turkey?