“I know the evil of my ancestors because I am those people. The balance is delicate in the extreme. I know that few of you who read my words have ever thought about your ancestors this way. It has not occurred to you that your ancestors were survivors and that the survival itself sometimes involved savage decisions, a kind of wanton brutality which civilized humankind works very hard to suppress. What price will you pay for that suppression? Will you accept your own extinction? -The Stolen Journals”
Explore This Quote Further
Analysis
In this quote from Frank Herbert's "The Stolen Journals," the speaker reflects on the impact of their ancestors' actions on their own identity. By acknowledging that they carry the evil of their ancestors within themselves, the speaker highlights the delicate balance between survival and savagery. The speaker challenges the reader to consider the brutal decisions their ancestors may have made in order to ensure survival, decisions that civilized society now condemns. This quote serves as a reminder that our ancestors' actions have shaped who we are today, and prompts us to reflect on the consequences of suppressing the darker aspects of our history. Herbert raises thought-provoking questions about the price of ignoring our past and the potential consequences of denying our origins.
Modern Relevance of Ancestor's Evil
In this quote from Frank Herbert's "The Stolen Journals," the idea of acknowledging the darker aspects of our ancestors is explored. This concept remains relevant today as we grapple with the repercussions of past actions and decisions made by those who came before us.
In the present day, many people are actively working to confront and address the problematic legacies of their ancestors, whether it be colonialism, slavery, or environmental destruction. By recognizing and understanding the brutal decisions made by our ancestors, we can better navigate the delicate balance between acknowledging the past and creating a more just and equitable future. Failure to do so may have dire consequences for future generations, potentially leading to our own extinction. This quote serves as a powerful reminder to consider our history and its impact on the present and future.
Reflection on Ancestry and Survival
"I know the evil of my ancestors because I am those people. The balance is delicate in the extreme. I know that few of you who read my words have ever thought about your ancestors this way. It has not occurred to you that your ancestors were survivors and that the survival itself sometimes involved savage decisions, a kind of wanton brutality which civilized humankind works very hard to suppress. What price will you pay for that suppression? Will you accept your own extinction? -The Stolen Journals” - Frank Herbert"
Reflection Questions
As you reflect on the words of Frank Herbert in "The Stolen Journals," consider the following questions:
- Have you ever considered the actions and decisions of your ancestors in the context of survival and the delicate balance between civilization and brutality?
- How does the idea of suppression of savage decisions and brutality within your ancestral history impact your understanding of your own identity and values?
- What do you think is the price that we, as a society, may pay for suppressing the darker aspects of our ancestral history?
- In what ways can acknowledging and grappling with the complexities of our ancestral past help us navigate the present and shape a more sustainable future for humankind?
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