IT happened. There is no avoiding it, no forgetting. No running away, or flying, or burying, or hiding

IT happened. There is no avoiding it, no forgetting. No running away, or flying, or burying, or hiding

In Laurie Halse Anderson's powerful novel "Speak," the protagonist, Melinda, experiences a traumatic event that changes her life forever. The quote "It happened. There is no avoiding it, no forgetting. No running away, or flying, or burying, or hiding" perfectly encapsulates the central theme of the novel - the impact of trauma and the struggle to come to terms with it.

The event that Melinda experiences is a sexual assault at a high school party. This horrific act shatters her sense of self and leaves her feeling isolated and alone. The quote highlights the fact that trauma cannot be ignored or erased. It lingers in the mind and the body, haunting the victim and affecting every aspect of their life.

Melinda's response to the assault is to retreat into silence. She becomes selectively mute, unable to speak about what happened to her. This silence becomes a barrier between her and the outside world, preventing her from seeking help or support. The quote emphasizes the futility of trying to escape from trauma - it will always be there, lurking beneath the surface.

As the novel progresses, Melinda begins to find her voice again. Through art and writing, she starts to express her feelings and confront the trauma that has been holding her back. The quote serves as a reminder that healing from trauma is a difficult and painful process, but it is necessary in order to move forward.

Laurie Halse Anderson's writing is raw and honest, capturing the emotional turmoil of trauma with sensitivity and empathy. Through Melinda's story, she explores the complexities of trauma and the resilience of the human spirit. The quote "It happened. There is no avoiding it, no forgetting. No running away, or flying, or burying, or hiding" is a powerful reminder of the lasting impact of trauma and the importance of facing it head-on.