Afraid Quote by Edith Wharton
““I’m so afraid that the treasures I long to unpack for you, that have come to me in magic ships from enchanted islands, are only, to you, the old familiar red calico & beads of the clever trader, who had dealing in every latitude, & knows just what to carry in the hold to please the simple native—I’m so afraid of this, that often & often I stuff my shining treasure back into their box, lest I should see you smiling at them! Well! And if you do? It’s your loss, after all! And if you can’t come into the room without my feeling all over me a ripple of flame, & if, wherever you touch me, a heart beats under your touch, & if, when you hold me, & I don’t speak, it’s because all the words in me seem to have become throbbing pulses, & all my thoughts are a great gold blur—why should I be afraid of your smiling at me, when I can turn the beads & calico back into such beauty—?””
About This Quote
Source Novel: The House of Mirth by Edith Wharton, 1905
The speaker fears that their gifts are dismissed as cheap, familiar trinkets rather than valued treasures, leading to self‑censorship and hidden potential.
In simple terms: Fear of being seen as ordinary hides true worth.
Key Takeaway
Share your gifts openly despite fear.
Themes
self‑doubt
authenticity
valuation
artistry
vulnerability
Mood
anxious
hopeful
reflective
Type
motivational
philosophical
When to use this quote
- creative collaboration
- personal relationships
- public speaking
- artistic performance
Key Concepts
self‑esteem
perception
gift‑exchange
Questions to Reflect On
- What gifts do you hide out of fear?
- How can you reframe perceived “common” offerings as unique?
A Different Perspective
Even if others undervalue you, your inner worth remains unchanged.
