“لقد قررت ذات يوم ,أن أحتفظ بصناديق أعماقي سراًصناديق لا تبوح بحقيقتها لـ مخلوقوها أنا أبرُّ بقسمي حتى أقصاه..ولم تعد أعماقي تبوح بسرّها حتى لي ..!”

Quote Analysis:

In this quote by Ghada Al-Samman, the speaker reflects on her decision to keep the depths of her innermost thoughts a secret, even from herself. The use of the metaphorical imagery of "boxes" to represent these hidden depths suggests that the speaker is consciously choosing to compartmentalize her emotions and experiences. This could indicate a desire for privacy or a fear of vulnerability. The resolve to keep these secrets hidden, even from one's own self, conveys a sense of self-reliance and self-control. The closing statement, "ولم تعد أعماقي تبوح بسرّها حتى لي," reveals a sense of isolation and a reluctance to open up, even to oneself. This quote captures the complex emotional landscape of the speaker, highlighting themes of secrecy, introspection, and self-reliance.

Modern Relevance

In this quote by Ghada al-Samman, she expresses the decision to keep her innermost thoughts and feelings hidden from others, creating a sense of mystery and privacy around her true self. This sentiment remains relevant in today's society, where individuals often struggle to balance authenticity with the pressures of social expectations and judgment. The idea of guarding one's innermost self can be seen as a form of self-protection in an age where vulnerability is often misconstrued or exploited. It serves as a reminder to prioritize self-care and introspection, setting boundaries to preserve one's emotional well-being.

Examples of Usage:

The quote by Ghada Al-Saman illustrates the concept of keeping one's deepest emotions and thoughts hidden from others, even those closest to us. This can be seen as a way of protecting oneself and maintaining a sense of privacy and control over one's inner self.

Reflection Questions:

Here are some reflection questions to consider after reading the quote by Ghada Al-Samman:

1. What do you think the author means by keeping the depths of her soul a secret from others, including herself?
2. Have you ever felt the need to hide parts of yourself or keep certain aspects of your life private? How did this make you feel?
3. Do you believe it is important to have a sense of privacy and retain certain secrets within yourself? Why or why not?
4. How do you think the act of keeping secrets from others can impact your relationships with them?
5. In what ways can embracing vulnerability and sharing your innermost thoughts and feelings with trusted individuals help in fostering deeper connections and understanding?