The quote suggests that experiencing trauma at any stage of life can have negative effects on an individual, particularly when such experiences are repressed or kept hidden inside. Trauma, whether it occurs during childhood or later in adulthood, tends to impact a person's mental and emotional health negatively if not addressed properly.
Beyond the surface meaning, this statement also highlights the resilience and inherent nature of human beings. While trauma can indeed leave lasting marks on one’s psyche, there is an underlying sense that our fundamental character and strengths are largely intact even after such experiences. The quote implies a balance between acknowledging the impact of negative events and recognizing the enduring core aspects of who we are as individuals. This perspective encourages a nuanced view of personal development and psychological well-being, suggesting that while trauma can be destructive, it does not completely define or obliterate an individual’s inherent nature.
Roland Orzabal is best known as the co-founder and lead guitarist of the British new wave band Tears for Fears. He has been influential in both music composition and lyrics writing, contributing to a body of work that often explores themes of personal struggle and resilience. His insights into human psychology, as reflected in this quote, resonate with his broader creative output which frequently delves into emotional landscapes and the enduring nature of the self despite adversity.