In Margaret Atwood's "Surfacing," the protagonist grapples with the limitations of language, feeling that it creates divisions among people and leads to a sense of fragmentation. This struggle with communication becomes a central theme as the character seeks a sense of completeness or unity beyond the confines of words. The notion that language can both connect and isolate us is poignantly explored throughout the narrative.
The quote, "Language divides us into fragments, I wanted to be whole," encapsulates the character's desire for connection and understanding in a world where language can often hinder true communication. This desire for wholeness reflects a universal human longing to overcome barriers and achieve a deeper sense of belonging and understanding among individuals.