Afraid Quote by Don DeLillo
“How strange it is. We have these deep terrible lingering fears about ourselves and the people we love. Yet we walk around, talk to people, eat and drink. We manage to function. The feelings are deep and real. Shouldn't they paralyze us? How is it we can survive them, at least for a little while? We drive a car, we teach a class. How is it no one sees how deeply afraid we were, last night, this morning? Is it something we all hide from each other, by mutual consent? Or do we share the same secret without knowing it? Wear the same disguise?”
About This Quote
Source Novel: White Noise, Don DeLillo, 1985
People conceal deep anxieties while continuing daily life, masking fear with normal activities.
In simple terms: We hide fears but keep functioning.
Key Takeaway
Acknowledge hidden fears and seek connection.
Themes
fear
social masks
existential anxiety
daily routine
Mood
reflective
somber
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- teaching
- driving
- social gatherings
- personal reflection
Key Concepts
psychology
existentialism
social conformity
Questions to Reflect On
- What fears do you hide from others?
- How can openness reduce collective anxiety?
A Different Perspective
Fear may be suppressed but can resurface unexpectedly.
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