Home is a notion that only nations of the homeless fully appreciate and only the uprooted comprehend

Home is a notion that only nations of the homeless fully appreciate and only the uprooted comprehend

In the context of Wallace Stegner, the quote “Home is a notion that only nations of the homeless fully appreciate and only the uprooted comprehend” holds a deep and poignant meaning. Stegner, a renowned American writer known for his exploration of themes such as the American West, nature, and the complexities of human relationships, often delved into the concept of home and belonging in his works.

Stegner himself was no stranger to the idea of being uprooted. Born in Iowa in 1909, he moved frequently during his childhood due to his father’s work as a trapper and farmer. This constant upheaval likely influenced Stegner’s understanding of the importance of home and the impact of displacement on individuals and communities.

In many of his novels and essays, Stegner explores the idea of home as a place of comfort, security, and belonging. He often portrays characters who are searching for a sense of home, whether it be in the physical landscape of the American West or in the relationships they form with others. Stegner’s writing is imbued with a deep sense of nostalgia for a lost or idealized home, reflecting his own experiences of displacement and longing for a sense of rootedness.

The quote “Home is a notion that only nations of the homeless fully appreciate and only the uprooted comprehend” speaks to the idea that those who have experienced displacement or homelessness have a unique perspective on the concept of home. For the homeless, home is not just a physical place but a state of being, a sense of belonging and connection that transcends mere shelter. Similarly, the uprooted – those who have been forced to leave their homes or who feel disconnected from their roots – understand the complexities and challenges of finding a sense of home in a world that is constantly changing and evolving.