Fifteen years Quote by Michael Cunningham
““Morning, Peter,” she calls from the back, in her exaggerated German accent. Mawning, Pedder. She’s been in the States more than fifteen years now, but her accent has gotten heavier. Uta is a member of what seems to be a growing body of defiantly unassimilated expatriates. She on one hand disdains her country of origin (Darling, the word “lugubrious” comes to mind) but on the other seems to grow more German (more not-American) with every passing year. ... Because Uta is German, utterly German, which of course is probably why she left there, and insists that she’ll never go back.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: The Hours, Michael Cunningham, 1998
Uta clings to a heavy German accent, resisting assimilation while paradoxically becoming more German over time, highlighting identity conflict in expatriates.
In simple terms: Uta resists assimilation yet becomes more German, showing identity tension.
Key Takeaway
Embrace authentic identity despite external pressures.
Themes
identity
assimilation
expatriate experience
culture clash
Mood
conflicted
reflective
Type
literary
character study
When to use this quote
- immigrant communities
- personal relationships
- career choices
- language learning
Key Concepts
cultural identity
self‑definition
linguistic authenticity
Questions to Reflect On
- How does language shape belonging?
- Can one fully reject a culture while adopting its traits?
A Different Perspective
Identity tension may cause isolation or hinder integration.
