Feeling Quote by Margaret Atwood
““Having experienced both, I am not sure which is worse: intense feeling, or the absence of it.””
About This Quote
Source Interview: The Handmaid’s Tale Author Discusses Emotion, Margaret Atwood, 2020
Intense emotions and emotional numbness are both distressing, each with its own pain.
In simple terms: Both strong feeling and lack of feeling can be painful.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and balance emotional experiences.
Themes
emotion
psychology
well‑being
Mood
reflective
introspective
Type
philosophical
literary
When to use this quote
- therapy sessions
- creative writing
- personal reflection
- mental health care
Key Concepts
affect theory
emotional regulation
Questions to Reflect On
- When have you felt more harmed by feeling or by its absence?
- Can numbness be a protective mechanism?
A Different Perspective
The quote overlooks that some may prefer numbness to avoid suffering.
