I know that in my family there are histories of violence that are internal family things and that are oftentimes dealt with internally. By internally, I mean inside the family group, but also partly inside ourselves. You know, self-hatred and hostility and rage and this cycle that won't break.

The quote by Kara Walker explores the difficult and often hidden realities of violence and emotional struggles within families. She acknowledges that some families carry histories of internal conflict, which are dealt with privately—both within the family group and internally within individuals. This highlights how pain, self-hatred, hostility, and rage can persist silently, creating a destructive cycle that is hard to break.

The origin of this quote comes from Kara Walker, a renowned contemporary artist known for her work addressing themes of race, history, and identity. Her reflection on family violence points to the complex emotional and psychological challenges that can affect generations, emphasizing the internal battles many individuals face as part of their family dynamics.

This quote sheds light on the often unseen and unspoken struggles within families, where harmful patterns are maintained not only through external actions but also through internal emotional turmoil. It reveals how these cycles of pain can become deeply ingrained, affecting both relationships and individual well-being.

In essence, Walker’s message is a candid acknowledgment of the challenges that come with confronting family trauma. It calls for awareness and understanding of the ways that violence and emotional pain can be perpetuated within families and within ourselves, urging us to recognize and address these difficult truths.