Abandoned Quote by Toni Morrison
“She is convinced that when language dies, out of carelessness, disuse, indifference and absence of esteem, or killed by fiat, not only she herself, but all users and makers are accountable for its demise. In her country children have bitten their tongues off and use bullets instead to iterate the voice of speechlessness, of disabled and disabling language, of language adults have abandoned altogether as a device for grappling with meaning, providing guidance, or expressing love.”
About This Quote
Source Novel: Beloved, 1987, United States
When language is abandoned through neglect or oppression, society loses meaning and connection; responsibility to preserve language lies with all.
In simple terms: If we stop caring for language, it dies, and we all suffer.
Key Takeaway
Protect and value language in all contexts.
Themes
language preservation
responsibility
culture
communication
identity
Mood
urgent
inspirational
Type
activist
educational
When to use this quote
- education
- community activism
- policy making
- literary analysis
Key Concepts
sociolinguistics
colonialism
social justice
Questions to Reflect On
- How does language shape personal identity?
- What actions can individuals take to keep languages alive?
A Different Perspective
Efforts may clash with dominant languages or political forces.
