This is wonderful, wonderful! Be the bird. You are the bird. Sacrifice yourself to abandoned family values

This is wonderful, wonderful! Be the bird. You are the bird. Sacrifice yourself to abandoned family values

Laurie Halse Anderson is a renowned author known for her powerful and thought-provoking young adult novels that tackle important and often difficult topics. One of her most famous works is "Speak," which deals with the sensitive subject of sexual assault and its aftermath. In this context, the quote "This is wonderful, wonderful! Be the bird. You are the bird. Sacrifice yourself to abandoned family values" takes on a deeper meaning.

The phrase "Be the bird. You are the bird" can be interpreted as a call to embrace one's true self and to find the strength and courage to speak out and stand up for what is right, even in the face of adversity. In "Speak," the protagonist, Melinda, struggles with the trauma of being raped and the subsequent isolation and silence she faces from her peers and even her own family. By encouraging readers to "be the bird," Anderson is urging them to find their voice and to not be afraid to fly free and speak their truth, no matter how difficult or painful it may be.

The second part of the quote, "Sacrifice yourself to abandoned family values," suggests a breaking away from traditional or harmful family dynamics or beliefs that may be holding one back. In Melinda's case, her family is portrayed as distant and unsupportive, adding to her feelings of loneliness and alienation. By sacrificing oneself to these abandoned family values, one can break free from toxic patterns and forge a new path towards healing and self-discovery.

Overall, this quote encapsulates the themes of empowerment, self-discovery, and resilience that are prevalent in Laurie Halse Anderson's work. It serves as a reminder to readers to find their voice, stand up for what is right, and break free from harmful influences in order to live authentically and courageously. Anderson's writing challenges readers to confront difficult truths and to find strength in vulnerability, making her a powerful voice in the world of young adult literature.