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Say Wish Quote by Margaret Atwood

“The Adams and the Eves used to say, We are what we eat, but I prefer to say, we are what we wish. Because if you can't wish, why bother?” quote by Margaret Atwood
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““The Adams and the Eves used to say, We are what we eat, but I prefer to say, we are what we wish. Because if you can't wish, why bother?””

Margaret Atwood

About This Quote

Source Novel: The Handmaid’s Tale, 1985

We are shaped by our desires; without wishes, existence feels meaningless.

In simple terms: Desires define us; lacking them leads to emptiness.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate meaningful aspirations.

Themes

identity desire purpose

Mood

reflective inspirational

Type

literary psychological

When to use this quote

  • career planning
  • personal growth
  • creative projects

Key Concepts

self‑actualization motivation

Questions to Reflect On

  • What wishes truly guide you?
  • How to differentiate fleeting wants from core purpose?
A Different Perspective

Desires can be fleeting or harmful.

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