Imprisoned Quote by Iris Murdoch
““Dora was stunned by this information. She stopped. 'Do you mean' she said, 'that they're completely imprisoned in there?' Mrs. Marks laughed. 'Not imprisoned, my dear,' she said. 'They are there of their own free will. This is not a prison. It is on the contrary a place which it is very hard to get into, and only the strongest achieve it. Like Mary in the parable, they have chosen the better part.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: The Sea, the Sea, Iris Murdoch, 1978
Freedom is a self‑chosen state, not a physical confinement; the strongest willingly enter a demanding realm, akin to choosing a better path.
In simple terms: True freedom is a conscious, challenging choice.
Key Takeaway
Seek and embrace the demanding but rewarding path.
Themes
freedom
choice
strength
Mood
thoughtful
inquisitive
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- career decisions
- spiritual practice
- personal relationships
- ethical dilemmas
Key Concepts
existentialism
voluntary commitment
Questions to Reflect On
- What does the "better part" mean to you?
- Are you willing to face the difficulty of true freedom?
A Different Perspective
Choosing the "better part" can be painful and isolating.
