Unjust. How many times I've used that word, scolded myself with it. All I mean by it now is that I don't have the final courage to say that I refuse to preside over violations against myself, and to hell with justice.
The quote is a reflection of Lillian Hellman's frustration with her own inability to stand up for herself and resist the injustices she faced. She is torn between her desire for justice and her fear of being ostracized or punished for speaking out. The quote highlights her inner conflict and the emotional toll it takes on her.
The quote is a powerful expression of Hellman's personal struggle with self-acceptance and self-empowerment. It shows her grappling with the idea that she is not willing to stand up for herself and fight against the injustices she faces, even though she knows it is the right thing to do.
The quote is set against the backdrop of the early 20th century, a time when women were still fighting for their rights and equality. Hellman's experiences as a woman and a writer during this time period likely influenced her writing and her perspective on the world.
Lillian Hellman was a renowned American playwright and screenwriter. She was born in 1905 and grew up in a Jewish family in New York City. Hellman's writing often explored themes of social justice, politics, and personal relationships.
The quote can be seen as a call to action, encouraging individuals to stand up for themselves and fight against injustices. It can also serve as a reminder that personal struggles and conflicts are a natural part of the human experience, and that seeking help and support is a sign of strength, not weakness.