In Alan Paton's book "Ah But Your Land Is Beautiful," a conversation reveals complex feelings associated with identity. When Mr. Berg is asked if he is an Afrikaner, he affirms it but expresses indifference about pride in his heritage. His response highlights a sense of detachment from ethnic pride, indicating that he feels he had no influence over his origin.

This excerpt emphasizes the theme of individual identity in relation to cultural or national pride. It reflects a broader discourse on how personal affiliations shape one's feelings about belonging, illustrating the intricacies of pride and shame linked to heritage in South Africa's historical context.