"The individual whose vision encompasses the whole world often feels nowhere so hedged in and out of touch with his surroundings as in his native land"
About this Quote
Emma Goldman's quote catches the paradox faced by people who possess an international point of view however find themselves feeling constrained or disconnected within their own familiar environments. At its core, this quote explores the dichotomy between regional and worldwide viewpoints. Goldman suggests that a person who has a broad, incorporating vision, one that traverses beyond borders and cultures, often feels the most limited in their homeland. This sensation of being "hedged in" may arise from several elements, including cultural restrictions, social standards, or simply the restrictions of local thinking compared to the limitless possibilities perceived on an international scale.
Such people, who are frequently cosmopolitan in thought, see the world as an interconnected entity instead of a collection of separated areas. This worldview can make the familiar settings of one's native land feel small and even stifling. The "out of touch" belief that Goldman points out can be attributed to the clash in between one's broad-minded point of view and the parochial views that might be prevalent in their home community. This disconnection can be both physical and emotional-- where the private lives in a world that prioritizes global understanding while feeling their immediate environment does not.
Moreover, this quote highlights the privacy that often accompanies visionary thinking. Having the ability to see beyond one's immediate surroundings is a present, however it can also lead to seclusion. The visionary struggles to reconcile their international understanding with local truths, often seeming like an outsider in their own neighborhood, misunderstood or even alienated by peers who may not share the very same extensive outlook.
In essence, Goldman's words compel us to review the difficulties faced by those who dare to believe beyond the familiar confines of their homeland. Their battle is a poignant tip of the tension in between regional identity and worldwide consciousness, in between belonging and vision, and in between convenience and development.
About the Author