Isabel Allende
The Quote in Other Words
Being born in a patriarchal Catholic and conservative family at the end of the world during ancient times, it’s no surprise that I became a fervent feminist at the young age of five, even though the term was not yet known in Chile, leaving everyone puzzled about my behavior.
Explanation of the Quote
This quote speaks to the experience of growing up in a society that is deeply rooted in traditional values and beliefs. The speaker describes being born into a patriarchal Catholic family, which suggests that they were raised with strict gender roles and expectations. Despite this upbringing, the speaker identifies as a feminist from a very young age, indicating a strong sense of individuality and a desire for equality.
The fact that the term “feminist” had not yet reached Chile at the time of the speaker’s childhood highlights the isolation and lack of awareness that can come with living in a conservative society. It also underscores the importance of language and the power of words to shape our understanding of ourselves and the world around us.
Overall, this quote speaks to the challenges of navigating cultural norms and expectations, and the importance of standing up for what we believe in, even when it goes against the status quo.