In "Hiroshima Mon Amour," Marguerite Duras explores the profound significance of memory in understanding human experience and trauma. The quote, "Why deny the obvious need for memory?" highlights the necessity of recalling past events, especially in the context of the atomic bomb and its devastating effects. Duras suggests that memory is not just a reflection of the past but a vital element for processing grief and loss, urging readers to confront rather than suppress their recollections.
This acknowledgment of memory serves as a means of connecting personal and collective histories. Duras illustrates how the act of remembering can both illuminate and complicate the narratives surrounding conflict and suffering. By embracing memory, individuals can find a pathway to healing, making sense of their own stories amidst the larger backdrop of human history, thus emphasizing memory's crucial role in shaping identity and understanding.