Skip to content

Cross Quote by Geraldine Brooks

“I was so shy. I used to cross the street so I wouldn't even have to talk to my relatives, much less strangers. That's not shy, that's wise. But I found that that when you had a journalist's notebook in your hand it wasn't really you, you see.” quote by Geraldine Brooks
Download Open image
“I was so shy. I used to cross the street so I wouldn't even have to talk to my relatives, much less strangers. That's not shy, that's wise. But I found that that when you had a journalist's notebook in your hand it wasn't really you, you see.”

Geraldine Brooks

About This Quote

Source Interview: The New Yorker, 2015

Shyness can be a protective strategy, but authenticity requires confronting discomfort.

In simple terms: Shyness protects, but growth needs honesty.

Key Takeaway

Balance safety with genuine interaction.

Themes

self‑protection authenticity growth

Mood

reflective introspective

Type

personal advice

When to use this quote

  • Networking events
  • family gatherings
  • public speaking
  • writing
  • therapy

Key Concepts

Psychology social dynamics

Questions to Reflect On

  • When does caution become avoidance?
  • How can you stay true while protecting yourself?
A Different Perspective

Over‑reliance on avoidance may limit relationships.

2.8 out of 5 (8 ratings)

More by Geraldine Brooks

Explore all 256 Geraldine Brooks quotes

More Cross quotes

Browse all 986 Cross quotes