Communication Quote by Margaret Atwood
““I wait. I compose myself. My self is a thing I now must compose, as one composes a speech. What I must present is a made thing, not something born.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood, 1985
Self‑construction is an intentional act; identity is crafted like a speech, not merely born.
In simple terms: Identity is deliberately created.
Actively shape your identity.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- personal growth
- creative writing
- public speaking
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What parts of yourself feel self‑crafted?
- How does this affect authenticity?
Identity can feel forced or inauthentic.