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Actually Quote by Elizabeth Strout

“In the kind of New England I'm from, you are expected to stay and marry somebody from New England - well, Maine, actually - so I think it was seen as a betrayal when I left for New York, which has been my refuge.” quote by Elizabeth Strout
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“In the kind of New England I'm from, you are expected to stay and marry somebody from New England - well, Maine, actually - so I think it was seen as a betrayal when I left for New York, which has been my refuge.”

Elizabeth Strout

About This Quote

Source Interview: The New York Times, 2018

Leaving one's hometown for a new city can be seen as betrayal by close-knit communities.

In simple terms: Moving away may feel like betrayal.

Key Takeaway

Balance personal growth with community ties.

Themes

family identity migration betrayal

Mood

thoughtful conflicted

Type

narrative reflective

When to use this quote

  • Career relocation
  • family expectations
  • social integration

Key Concepts

regional loyalty personal freedom cultural expectations

Questions to Reflect On

  • What sacrifices are worth making for self‑fulfillment?
  • How can one honor roots while pursuing new horizons?
A Different Perspective

Community judgment can hinder personal aspirations.

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