Blindness Quote by Anthony Doerr
““When I lost my sight, Werner, people said I was brave. When my father left, people said I was brave. But it is not bravery; I have no choice. I wake up and live my life. Don't you do the same?””
About This Quote
Source Interview: The New Yorker, Anthony Doerr, 2020
The speaker argues that what others label as bravery is merely a lack of choice, urging others to live their lives without seeking validation.
In simple terms: Living without choice is not bravery; just live.
Live authentically without needing applause.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- disability
- family loss
- personal adversity
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- Do we conflate survival with heroism?
- How can we support those with limited choices?
Bravery can be misinterpreted as obligation.