China Quote by Margaret Atwood
““China does not exist. Nevertheless, she longs to be there.””
About This Quote
Source Essay: “The Geography of Thought” by Margaret Atwood, 2012
A critique of the notion that a nation can be ignored, emphasizing the desire for belonging despite political denial.
In simple terms: Even if a place is denied, people still wish to be there.
Key Takeaway
Acknowledge and respect unseen identities.
Themes
identity
belonging
politics
Mood
thoughtful
critical
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- immigration
- cultural diaspora
- political activism
Key Concepts
nationalism
existential desire
Questions to Reflect On
- How does denial affect personal identity?
- What ways can societies recognize unacknowledged groups?
A Different Perspective
Denial can marginalize those yearning for connection.
![“[The Dalai Lama] told me some years ago, "I've made every concession to China, and I've been as open and tolerant as I could, and still things get worse in Tibet." If you look at it from one point of view, as he himself says, his monastic position of forbearance and nonviolence hasn't reaped any…” quote by Pico Iyer](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/9fe/pico-iyer-1252_benefits_the-dalai-lama-told-me-some-years-ago-i_678.jpg)
