Cancer Quote by Joan Wickersham
![“[On suicide:] It's the only cause of death that can be used as a noun to describe the dead person. If you die of cancer you are not called 'a cancer.' If someone else shoots you, you are not referred to as 'a murder.' But if you shoot yourself, you are labeled as a suicide. Your death becomes your…” quote by Joan Wickersham](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/7e9/joan-wickersham-29935_cancer_on-suicide-it-s-the-only-cause-of-death_2283766.jpg)
“[On suicide:] It's the only cause of death that can be used as a noun to describe the dead person. If you die of cancer you are not called 'a cancer.' If someone else shoots you, you are not referred to as 'a murder.' But if you shoot yourself, you are labeled as a suicide. Your death becomes your definition.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: On Suicide, author unknown, modern commentary
The passage highlights how society labels self‑inflicted death as a defining characteristic, unlike other causes that remain unnamed.
In simple terms: Suicide becomes a defining label.
Key Takeaway
Consider how language shapes perception of death.
Themes
identity
stigma
language
death
society
Mood
thoughtful
critical
Type
analytical
social.
When to use this quote
- mental health discussions
- legal contexts
- media reporting
- personal narratives
Key Concepts
psychology
sociology
semantics
Questions to Reflect On
- How do labels affect grieving?
- Can language change stigma?
A Different Perspective
Labels can oversimplify complex personal struggles.
