It is an easy mistake to think that non-talkers are non-feelers

It is an easy mistake to think that non-talkers are non-feelers

Wallace Stegner, a renowned American writer and environmentalist, often explored the complexities of human emotions and relationships in his works. One of the recurring themes in his writing is the idea that people who are quiet or reserved may still have deep emotions and feelings, despite their lack of verbal expression. In fact, Stegner himself was known for his introspective and contemplative nature, which is reflected in his characters and their struggles with communication and emotional expression.

“It is an easy mistake to think that non-talkers are non-feelers” is a powerful statement that challenges the assumption that those who are quiet or reserved are devoid of emotions. In many of Stegner’s works, such as his Pulitzer Prize-winning novel “Angle of Repose” and his short story collection “The Women on the Wall,” he delves into the inner lives of characters who struggle to articulate their feelings and emotions. These characters may be stoic or withdrawn, but beneath their outward demeanor lies a rich and complex inner world of thoughts and emotions.

Stegner’s exploration of the emotional lives of non-talkers is particularly poignant in his depiction of the American West, a landscape that often serves as a metaphor for the internal struggles of his characters. In works like “Crossing to Safety” and “All the Little Live Things,” Stegner portrays individuals who are deeply connected to the land and its natural beauty, yet find it difficult to express their emotions to others. These characters may find solace in nature, but struggle to communicate their feelings to those around them.

Through his nuanced and empathetic portrayal of non-talkers, Stegner challenges readers to look beyond outward appearances and consider the depth of emotion that may lie beneath the surface. He reminds us that everyone experiences emotions in their own way, and that quietness or reserve does not equate to a lack of feeling. In a world that often values extroversion and verbal expression, Stegner’s work serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of listening to and understanding the emotional lives of all individuals, regardless of their outward demeanor.