Ceremony Quote by Paule Marshall
“Once a great wrong has been done, it never dies. People speak the words of peace, but their hearts do not forgive. Generations perform ceremonies of reconciliation but there is no end.”
About This Quote
Source Novel: "The Lonely Polyp", 1965
Wrongdoings leave lasting scars; peace words are hollow without genuine forgiveness.
In simple terms: Bad deeds linger despite peace talks.
Key Takeaway
Seek true reconciliation.
Themes
justice
forgiveness
history
Mood
somber
thoughtful
Type
literary
reflective
When to use this quote
- family disputes
- post‑war societies
- community healing
- intergenerational trauma
Key Concepts
psychology
conflict resolution
Questions to Reflect On
- Can forgiveness be forced?
- What heals deeper than words?
A Different Perspective
Forgiveness may be impossible for some victims.
