I am a woman. I think I have the spirit, the intelligence, and - dare I say - the soul of a woman.

Agnes Varda’s quote, "I am a woman. I think I have the spirit, the intelligence, and - dare I say - the soul of a woman," expresses her pride and affirmation of her identity as a woman. Varda highlights the multifaceted nature of her being, emphasizing the spirit, intelligence, and soul that define her as a woman. The inclusion of the word "dare" suggests a certain boldness or confidence in asserting these qualities, indicating that she is unapologetically embracing her full identity without hesitation.

In this quote, Varda is asserting that being a woman is not just about physical attributes or societal expectations, but about the deeper, intrinsic qualities that shape her as an individual. Her focus on spirit, intelligence, and soul speaks to the complexity and depth of womanhood, which extends beyond traditional stereotypes. By highlighting these aspects, Varda is making a statement about the richness of the female experience and identity, rejecting simplistic or reductive views.

The phrase "dare I say" adds a touch of humility or playfulness, but also suggests that Varda is comfortable with her identity and is challenging anyone who might question or undermine the importance of the spirit, intelligence, and soul in defining who she is. This reflects the confidence many women, including Varda, have in their own personal and creative expression, especially in an era when women were often expected to be defined by others.

The origin of the quote comes from Agnes Varda, a pioneering Belgian-born French filmmaker often regarded as one of the founders of the French New Wave. Known for her deep and empathetic portrayals of women in her films, Varda’s works often explored themes of identity, feminism, and the complexity of the female experience. Her statement here reflects her commitment to capturing the full spectrum of what it means to be a woman in both her personal and professional life.