This novel by Judy Blume has many quotes that express what the speaker is feeling at any point in time. Most of them were by quotes of Margaret Simon as she is the protagonist, and the story is told through her. Here are some of the most memorable and thought-provoking quotes from the book.
Search for God
“I’ve been looking for you God. I looked in temple. I looked in church. And today, I looked for you when I wanted to confess. But you weren’t there.”
Margaret’s heartfelt plea to God reflects her growing uncertainty about faith and her desire for connection. The quote above reflects Margaret’s internal struggle and search for spiritual guidance. In this passage, Margaret is expressing her frustration and sense of spiritual emptiness. She has been searching for a connection with God in various places traditionally associated with worship—the temple and the church—but has not found the solace or answers she is seeking. The mention of confessing suggests that Margaret is grappling with questions of identity, faith, and the challenges of adolescence.
The passage highlights Margaret’s earnest desire for a meaningful connection with a higher power, and her disappointment at not finding God in the places she expected. It also speaks to the universal human experience of seeking guidance and understanding during times of uncertainty and personal growth. ‘Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret‘ explores Margaret’s journey as she navigates the complexities of adolescence and searches for a sense of identity and purpose, including her spiritual and religious beliefs.
“I’m not sure I’ll ever know God. I mean, really know. And I’m not sure I care that much anymore.”
Margaret’s confession reveals her evolving views on religion and her willingness to question established norms. In this statement, Margaret reflects a complex and contemplative attitude toward spirituality and the search for a deeper understanding of God. Here, she is expressing uncertainty about her ability to truly understand or know God in a profound or intimate way. The use of “really know” implies a desire for a deep, personal connection with the divine.
The second part of the statement conveys a shift in Margaret’s perspective. She is indicating that her level of concern or importance attached to knowing God deeply has diminished. It suggests a sense of resignation or a change in priorities regarding her spiritual journey. The uncertainty about knowing God may parallel Margaret’s broader uncertainties and explorations during her coming-of-age experiences. It also underscores the evolving nature of her beliefs and the complexity of spirituality during a period of personal growth and self-discovery.
Lack of Self-Worth
“I’m nothing, and you know it! I don’t even believe in God!”
Margaret’s outburst of frustration highlights her struggles with identity and belief as she grapples with the complexities of adolescence. The statement above reflects a moment of intense emotion and self-doubt. In this quote, she is expressing a profound sense of inadequacy and a lack of personal identity or significance. Margaret is conveying a deep-seated belief that she lacks value or importance. It suggests a feeling of insignificance or worthlessness, and the addition of “and you know it” implies a sense of frustration or desperation directed toward someone else, perhaps an individual or a higher power.
The speaker declares a lack of belief in God, indicating a rejection of religious or spiritual beliefs. This statement further emphasizes the speaker’s struggle with questions of identity and existence. The denial of belief in God may be a way of expressing a sense of isolation or disconnection from spiritual or moral guidance. This statement reflects a moment of existential crisis, where the speaker is grappling with deep-seated insecurities, a feeling of being insignificant, and a questioning of their beliefs. It’s an emotional expression of inner turmoil and the search for meaning or validation in the face of personal struggles.
Contentment and Gratitude
“My mother and father didn’t plan for me to be an only child, but that’s the way it worked out, which is fine with me because this way I don’t have anybody around to fight.”
Margaret’s observation underscores her unique perspective as an only child and her desire for independence. In the statement above, Margaret shares her observation about being an only child, explaining that her parents didn’t intentionally choose to have only one child. Circumstances or other factors led to her being the only child in the family. Margaret expresses her contentment with being an only child and doesn’t feel the need for siblings.
She also provides a reason for why she is content with being an only child, that is there is no one around for her to fight with. This observation implies that Margaret appreciates the peace and lack of sibling rivalry in her family. This statement reflects Margaret’s perspective on her family dynamics. While she acknowledges that being an only child wasn’t necessarily planned, she finds it advantageous because it eliminates the potential for sibling conflicts. It provides a glimpse into Margaret’s personality and the dynamics of her family life.
“I know you’re there God. I know you wouldn’t have missed this for anything! Thank you God. Thanks an awful lot.”
Margaret’s expressions of gratitude at the end of the novel reflect her renewed sense of hope and faith, despite her ongoing journey of self-discovery. The above quote reflects a moment of gratitude, acknowledgment, and a sense of connection with the divine. Here, Margaret is expressing a belief in the presence of God. It suggests a sense of faith and awareness that, in her view, God is present and aware of what is happening in her life.
“I know you wouldn’t have missed this for anything!” This part of the statement adds a touch of humor and familiarity. Margaret imagines God actively paying attention to her life and implies that whatever significant event or moment has occurred, God would have found it noteworthy and not missed it for anything in the world. The repetition of “thanks” emphasizes the depth of her appreciation. It’s a moment of acknowledging the divine, feeling grateful for what has transpired, and expressing thanks for God’s presence.
Overall, this statement captures a blend of faith, humor, and gratitude. Margaret is addressing God directly, expressing her belief in a divine presence, and conveying appreciation for the events in her life. It reflects a personal and intimate connection with spirituality and a sense of gratitude for the perceived guidance or influence of a higher power.
