And fantasy it was, for we were not strong, only aggressive; we were not free, merely licensed; we were not compassionate, we were polite; not good, but well behaved. We courted death in order to call ourselves brave, and hid like thieves from life.
In the quote from Toni Morrison's "The Bluest Eye," the author presents a stark reflection on the human condition, suggesting that societal norms often mask genuine emotions and strengths. The distinction between being strong and merely aggressive highlights a facade of power that lacks true resilience. Similarly, the concepts of freedom and compassion are viewed as superficial, suggesting that acceptable behavior can often be a substitute for authentic virtues.
This commentary speaks to a deeper existential truth where individuals engage in acts that they perceive as brave, such as courting death, yet it exposes an underlying fear of embracing life fully. The metaphor of hiding like thieves suggests that instead of living genuinely, people often feel the need to conform to societal expectations, thereby disconnecting from the essence of their existence. Morrison captures the struggle between appearances and reality, emphasizing the complexity of human experiences.
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All the things you can talk about in anyone's work are the things that are least important.
Race of Cain, ascend to heaven, And cast God down upon the earth!
