Body Quote by Jamaica Kincaid
“A psychiatrist once asked me to draw a picture of my family. This is when I was a member of a family of four. I drew the three other people in the family first, bodies and heads. And then, last, I began to draw myself - but gave up.”
About This Quote
The therapist’s request reveals avoidance of self‑recognition, highlighting difficulty confronting personal identity.
In simple terms: Drawing family without self shows avoidance.
Face self‑image directly to grow.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- therapy sessions
- family gatherings
- self‑portrait projects
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- Why do we often omit ourselves in family narratives?
- What does that omission say about self‑value?
Self‑examination can be painful and may trigger resistance.