Called Nganon Quote by Joanne Greenberg
““People were differentiated by this substance, which was called nganon . Nganon was a concentrate which was defined in each person by nurture and circumstance. She believed that she and a certain few others were not of the same nganon as the rest of Earth's people. At first Deborah had thought that it was only she who was set apart from human kind, but others of the un-dead on D ward seemed to be tainted as she was. All of her life, herself and all her possessions had been imbued with her essence, the poisonous nganon . She had never lent her clothes or books or pencils, or let anyone touch any of her things, and she had often borrowed or stolen from other children at school or camp, delighting, until their stolen nganon wore off them, in the health and purity and grace of the possessions.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: The Un-Dead on D Ward, Joanne Greenberg, 1995
A character believes a mysterious substance defines identity and separates her from others, leading to hoarding and stealing to protect her essence.
In simple terms: She thinks a hidden essence makes her different and hoards things to keep it safe.
Key Takeaway
Recognize how perceived differences can drive exclusionary behavior.
Themes
identity
isolation
possession
fear
trust
Mood
anxious
reflective
Type
narrative
psychological
When to use this quote
- school interactions
- family dynamics
- personal relationships
Key Concepts
essence
social stigma
psychology
Practical Applications
- peer groups
Questions to Reflect On
- How does believing you are fundamentally different affect your relationships?
- What would happen if you shared your possessions?
A Different Perspective
The belief in an unseen dividing factor may be unfounded and harmful.
