Ankles Quote by Jean Rhys
“Every word I say has chains round its ankles; every thought I think is weighted with heavy weights. Since I was born, hasn't every word I've said, every thought I've thought, everything I've done, been tied up, weighted, chained? And mind you, I know that with all this I don't succeed. Or I succeed in flashes only too damned well. ...But think how hard I try and how seldom I dare. Think - and have a bit of pity. That is, if you ever think, you apes, which I doubt.”
About This Quote
Source Novel: Wide Sargasso Sea by Jean Rhys, 1966
The speaker feels trapped by language and thought, seeing them as burdens that hinder success, yet occasional breakthroughs occur despite constant self‑criticism.
In simple terms: Words and thoughts feel like heavy chains, limiting achievement.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and release mental burdens to act.
Themes
self‑doubt
creativity
psychological
identity
freedom
Mood
melancholic
reflective
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- writing
- personal reflection
- therapy
- creative work
- academic study
Key Concepts
existentialism
self‑criticism
mental health
Questions to Reflect On
- What mental chains hold you back?
- How can you transform self‑criticism into constructive insight?
A Different Perspective
Even brief successes may be undermined by persistent self‑imposed constraints.
