Arms Quote by Jasper Fforde
“A missing arm might ruin your symmetry. Personal asymmetry where I come from is a big taboo and brings great shame on the family and sometimes even the whole village." "Do you then have to kill yourself over it or something?" "Goodness me, no! The family and village just have to learn to be ashamed--and nuts to them for being so oversensitive.”
About This Quote
Source Novel: The Eyre Affair by Jasper Fforde, 2001
Physical differences can become sources of shame in cultures that value uniformity, but personal acceptance and community education can counteract stigma.
In simple terms: Physical differences cause shame in some societies.
Key Takeaway
Promote acceptance, challenge taboos.
Themes
identity
shame
culture
Mood
reflective
empathetic
Type
social
cultural
When to use this quote
- family gatherings
- school environments
- media representation
Key Concepts
social norms
body image
Questions to Reflect On
- What steps can a community take to reduce stigma?
- How does personal confidence affect societal views?
A Different Perspective
Changing deep‑rooted cultural taboos is difficult and may meet resistance.
