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But unshed tears can turn rancid. So can memory. So can…

“But unshed tears can turn rancid. So can memory. So can biting your tongue. My bad nights were beginning. I couldn't sleep.” quote by Margaret Atwood
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““But unshed tears can turn rancid. So can memory. So can biting your tongue. My bad nights were beginning. I couldn't sleep.””

Margaret Atwood

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Suppressed emotions and memories can become toxic, disrupting peace.

In simple terms: Unexpressed feelings rot inside.

Key Takeaway

Acknowledge and process pain early.

Themes

mental health memory emotions

Mood

melancholic introspective

Type

literary emotional

When to use this quote

  • therapy
  • journaling
  • nighttime routines

Key Concepts

psychology trauma self‑care

Questions to Reflect On

  • What are you holding back?
  • How can you safely release it?
A Different Perspective

May romanticen emotional expression.

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