Language Quote by Eula Biss
““There are some words that seem to well up from inside me without reason. I will be walking along an empty hallway, leaning against the wall of an elevator, looking at the ceiling of my apartment when I find myself saying, “sorry.” But I am not saying it to anyone else, it is only for the sound of the word, the feel of it.””
About This Quote
Source Essay: “The Sound of Apology”, 2010, The New Yorker
Spontaneous apologies arise from an inner need to hear the word, not to address anyone.
In simple terms: She apologizes to herself for the sound of the word.
Key Takeaway
Recognize when you speak to yourself for emotional release.
Themes
self‑reflection
language
emotion
Mood
introspective
melancholic
Type
personal
psychological
When to use this quote
- journaling
- therapy sessions
- private monologue
Key Concepts
inner dialogue
psychology of speech
Questions to Reflect On
- What does saying “sorry” to yourself accomplish?
- Can you find alternative ways to release tension?
A Different Perspective
Apologizing without a recipient may not resolve underlying feelings.
![“I thought, how would I feel if my son gave one of those [underprivileged] kids chicken pox? For him it's not a terrible thing. We have good insurance and easy access to health care. It's a different situation for another family. I didn't want to make the decision for them.” quote by Eula Biss](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/16f/eula-biss-12946_access_i-thought-how-would-i-feel-if-my-son-gav_754757.jpg)
