Desire Quote by Donald Barthelme
““Mother, have you noticed that this society we’re in tends to be a little…repressive?” “What does that mean, Eugenie? What does that mean, that strange new word, ‘repressive,’ that I have never heard before?” “It means…it’s like when you decide to do something, and you get up out of your chair to do it, and you take a step, and then become aware of frosty glances being directed at you from every side.” “Frosty glances?” “Your desires are stifled.” “What desires are you talking about?” “Just desires in general. Any desires. It’s a whole…I guess atmosphere is the…word…a tendency on the part of the society…” “You’d better sew some more pillow cases, Eugenie.””
About This Quote
A critique of how societal norms subtly suppress individual desires, making personal expression feel risky and watched.
In simple terms: Society can quietly limit personal freedom.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and challenge subtle social pressures.
Themes
society
individualism
conformity
psychology
Mood
reflective
critical
Type
analytical
commentary
When to use this quote
- personal relationships
- workplace dynamics
- creative pursuits
- public speaking
Key Concepts
social control
self‑expression
censorship
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you notice when your desires are being suppressed?
- What steps can you take to express yourself despite social pressure?
A Different Perspective
Resistance may provoke conflict or isolation.
![“Teaching might even be the greatest of the arts since the medium is the human mind and spirit. My three [great teachers] did not tell - they catalyzed a burning desire to know. Under their influence, the horizons sprung wide and fear went away and the unknown became knowable. But most important of…” quote by John Steinbeck](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/84c/john-steinbeck-71_art_teaching-might-even-be-the-greatest-of-t_1738.jpg)
