Sultana's poignant reflection on her life encapsulates the struggles faced by many women in oppressive societies. She acknowledges her innate freedom at birth but reveals how, over time, this freedom transformed into a suffocating existence marked by invisible chains. These chains symbolize societal constraints that went unrecognized until she gained the maturity to perceive their impact, leading to a life overshadowed by fear.
The quote powerfully captures the sudden shift from innocence to a constrained reality, as Sultana realizes that the limitations imposed on her life have drastically altered her sense of self. With this understanding, she confronts the harsh realities of her existence in Saudi Arabia, addressing both personal and societal challenges that women endure behind the veil.