Meaning: The quote by Arundhati Roy reflects on the need for individuals to work on themselves in order to find tranquility amidst the overwhelming and often horrific events that occur in the world. Arundhati Roy is an Indian author and activist known for her powerful and thought-provoking writings on social and political issues. In this quote, she emphasizes the importance of not becoming desensitized to the atrocities and injustices that we witness and experience.

In today's interconnected world, we are constantly bombarded with news and information about various crises, conflicts, and injustices. The 24-hour news cycle and the prevalence of social media mean that we are exposed to a continuous stream of distressing events from around the globe. This constant exposure can lead to feelings of helplessness, despair, and ultimately desensitization to the suffering of others. Arundhati Roy's quote addresses this phenomenon and suggests that it is crucial for individuals to actively work on themselves in order to maintain a sense of empathy and humanity in the face of such overwhelming challenges.

The phrase "finding some tranquility" implies the need for inner peace and calmness in the midst of chaos. It suggests that amidst the turmoil and distressing events, individuals must strive to cultivate a sense of inner peace and stability. This does not mean ignoring or being indifferent to the suffering of others, but rather finding a way to respond to these events with a sense of balance and composure. This can be a challenging task, especially in the face of ongoing global crises, but it is essential in order to prevent becoming desensitized to the horrors that occur in the world.

The quote also highlights the idea that the biggest risk many of us face is becoming inured to the horrors. The word "inured" means to become accustomed to something unpleasant or unwelcome, to the point where it no longer affects or disturbs us. Arundhati Roy warns that this desensitization to suffering and injustice poses a significant risk to our humanity. When we become inured to the horrors, we risk losing our ability to empathize and take meaningful action to address the challenges facing our world.

In essence, Arundhati Roy's quote serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of maintaining our humanity and empathy in the face of overwhelming global challenges. It urges individuals to actively work on themselves, to find inner tranquility, and to resist the temptation to become desensitized to the suffering of others. This message is particularly relevant in today's world, where the constant exposure to distressing events can take a toll on our emotional well-being and sense of compassion.

In conclusion, Arundhati Roy's quote encourages us to reflect on the impact of the constant barrage of distressing news and events, and the potential for desensitization to the suffering of others. It serves as a call to action for individuals to actively work on themselves, to find inner tranquility, and to resist the risk of becoming inured to the horrors of the world. By heeding this message, we can strive to maintain our empathy, humanity, and capacity for meaningful action in the face of global challenges.