We Identity Quotes

How we cite our quotes: (Record.Paragraph)

Quote #4

"This morning I went downstairs, all purified and distilled, transparent." (10.1)

The State often defines identity by transparency: the ability to see through anyone and know their innermost thoughts. D-503 is happy at this thought, indicating that his identity is still State-approved.

Quote #5

"One, the former D-503, Number D-503 and the other . . . Before, that other used only to show his hairy paws from time to time, but now that whole otherself left his shell. That shell was breaking, and in a moment..." 10.46

There's a sense of transition and change here as D-503 leaves his old identity behind and embraces a new one. Note the use of the shell (like an eggshell) as a way of signaling that change.

Quote #6

I look in the mirror. And for the first time in my life, yes for the first time in my life, I see clearly, precisely, consciously, I see myself as some "him." I am "he." (11.1)

This is a key moment, because it expresses identity as a symbol of individuality, not an extension of the State. For the first time, it is in his hands and not the Society around him.