We'll choose knowledge no matter what, we'll maim ourselves in the process, we'll stick our hands into the flames for it if necessary. Curiosity is not our only motive; love or grief or despair or hatred is what drives us on. We'll spy relentlessly on the dead; we'll open their letters, we'll read their journals, we'll go through their trash, hoping for a hint, a final word, an explanation, from those who have deserted us--who've left us holding the bag, which is often a good deal emptier than we'd supposed.
The quote from Margaret Atwood's "The Blind Assassin" highlights the human desire for knowledge, even at a great personal cost. It describes a relentless pursuit of understanding that is driven by deep emotions such as love, grief, despair, and hatred. This insatiable curiosity pushes individuals to engage in intrusive and desperate measures, searching through the belongings of the deceased in hopes of finding closure or explanations for their absence.
Atwood's portrayal illustrates how the quest for knowledge is intertwined with profound emotional experiences. It reveals that while curiosity is a significant motivator, the influences of love and loss can lead individuals to take risks, often inflicting emotional wounds in their quest for answers. This reflection on the complexity of human motivation reveals both the strength and vulnerability inherent in our search for truth and connection with those we've lost.
