To pronounce the name of the dead is to make them live again, said the ancient Egyptians: not always what one might wish.
In Margaret Atwood's "The Blind Assassin," the theme of memory and the act of storytelling is explored through the lens of the ancient Egyptians' belief regarding the names of the deceased. By voicing the names of those who have passed, individuals can bring them back to life in a figurative sense. This act of remembrance can be both powerful and unsettling, as it can revive not only the memories of loved ones but also the complexities and unresolved issues associated with them.
The quote highlights the dual nature of memory; it serves as a celebration of life but also a painful reminder of loss. Engaging with the past, therefore, can be a double-edged sword, leading to reflection and nostalgia while also confronting underlying grief. Atwood invites readers to consider how we engage with the memories of those who are gone, recognizing that while their stories can illuminate the present, they may also evoke feelings we are not always prepared to face.
