Ashamed Quote by Hélène Cixous
““I, too, overflow; my desires have invented new desires, my body knows unheard-of songs. Time and again I, too, have felt so full of luminous torrents that I could burst-burst with forms much more beautiful than those which are put up in frames and sold for a stinking fortune. And I, too, said nothing, showed nothing; I didn't open my mouth, I didn't repaint my half of the world. I was ashamed. I was afraid, and I swallowed my shame and my fear. I said to myself: You are mad!””
About This Quote
The speaker describes an inner overflow of desire and creative energy that remains unexpressed due to shame and fear, leading to self‑censure and a sense of madness.
In simple terms: Unexpressed creative longing caused by shame.
Key Takeaway
Silencing desire stifles artistic potential.
Themes
self‑expression
desire
shame
creativity
identity
Mood
melancholic
introspective
defiant
Type
personal confession
philosophical reflection
When to use this quote
- artist feeling blocked
- writer doubting their voice
- individual suppressing emotions
- person confronting self‑criticism
Key Concepts
inner conflict
artistic inhibition
psychic overflow
Practical Applications
- therapy for creative blocks
- workshops on authentic self‑expression
Questions to Reflect On
- What would happen if the speaker allowed the 'luminous torrents' to flow?
- How does shame shape our creative choices?
A Different Perspective
The intensity of inner desire may be a catalyst for growth if embraced rather than suppressed.
