It is terrible to destroy a person's picture of himself in the interests of truth or some other abstraction

It is terrible to destroy a person's picture of himself in the interests of truth or some other abstraction

Doris Lessing, a renowned British novelist and essayist, was known for her insightful exploration of human relationships and the complexities of the human psyche. In her works, she often delved into the idea of self-perception and the impact of external forces on an individual's sense of identity. One of the recurring themes in Lessing's writing is the idea that it is harmful to shatter a person's carefully constructed image of themselves in the pursuit of truth or some other abstract concept.

Lessing believed that each person creates a unique narrative about themselves, a story that helps them make sense of their experiences and shape their identity. This narrative is often based on a combination of personal beliefs, societal expectations, and past experiences. When this narrative is challenged or undermined, it can have devastating consequences for the individual. Lessing understood that the human psyche is fragile and that our sense of self is closely tied to our beliefs about who we are.

In her novel "The Golden Notebook," Lessing explores the idea of fractured identities and the struggle to reconcile conflicting aspects of the self. The protagonist, Anna Wulf, grapples with the different roles she plays in her life and the ways in which these roles can come into conflict. Through Anna's story, Lessing highlights the complexity of human identity and the difficulty of maintaining a coherent sense of self in a world that is constantly changing.

Lessing's belief that it is harmful to destroy a person's picture of themselves in the interests of truth or some other abstraction is rooted in her understanding of the human condition. She recognized that our sense of self is fragile and that we rely on our beliefs about who we are to navigate the complexities of life. By challenging these beliefs, we risk destabilizing the very foundation of our identity.