Do they choose to be so dense? Were they born that way? I have no friends. I have nothing. I say nothing. I am nothing

Do they choose to be so dense? Were they born that way? I have no friends. I have nothing. I say nothing. I am nothing

In Laurie Halse Anderson's novel "Speak," the protagonist, Melinda, grapples with feelings of isolation and loneliness after a traumatic event leaves her feeling disconnected from her peers. The quote, "Do they choose to be so dense? Were they born that way? I have no friends. I have nothing. I say nothing. I am nothing," encapsulates Melinda's internal struggle as she navigates the complexities of high school and the aftermath of her trauma.

Melinda's sense of alienation is palpable throughout the novel, as she struggles to find her voice and express herself in a world that seems indifferent to her pain. The quote reflects her frustration with the people around her who fail to see or understand her inner turmoil. She questions whether their ignorance is a deliberate choice or simply a result of their own limitations.

The idea of being "dense" can be interpreted in multiple ways in the context of the novel. It could refer to the lack of empathy or understanding that Melinda's peers display towards her, as they fail to see beyond the surface and recognize the depth of her suffering. It could also allude to their inability to comprehend the complexities of human emotions and experiences, as they remain oblivious to the struggles that Melinda is facing.

Melinda's feelings of loneliness and isolation are further compounded by her own internal struggles. She feels as though she has nothing to offer the world, that her voice is insignificant and unworthy of being heard. This sense of worthlessness and invisibility contributes to her silence, as she retreats further into herself and struggles to find a way to connect with others.

Ultimately, Melinda's journey in "Speak" is one of self-discovery and empowerment. Through her art and her eventual decision to speak out about her trauma, she finds a way to reclaim her voice and assert her presence in the world. The quote serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges she faces and the resilience she demonstrates in the face of adversity.