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Boundaries Quote by Margaret Atwood

“It’s strange to remember how we used to think, as if everything were available to us, as if there were no contingencies, no boundaries; as if we were free to shape and reshape forever the ever-expanding perimeters of our lives.” quote by Margaret Atwood
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““It’s strange to remember how we used to think, as if everything were available to us, as if there were no contingencies, no boundaries; as if we were free to shape and reshape forever the ever-expanding perimeters of our lives.””

Margaret Atwood

About This Quote

Source Novel: The Handmaid’s Tale, Margaret Atwood, 1985

It reflects on youthful optimism that everything is possible, later confronting reality’s limits and the illusion of unlimited freedom.

In simple terms: We once thought we could shape life forever, but constraints appear.

Key Takeaway

Balance ambition with awareness of real limits.

Themes

optimism constraints growth

Mood

thoughtful hopeful

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • personal planning
  • career development
  • creative projects
  • policy making

Key Concepts

psychology philosophy social critique

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you adjust goals when faced with new boundaries?
  • What role do constraints play in creativity?
A Different Perspective

Idealism can blind us to practical obstacles.

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