Meaning: The quote, "If I leave, reality will devour me. Then they will all really be dead" by Åsne Seierstad, a Norwegian journalist, reflects the profound emotional and psychological impact of bearing witness to tragedy and suffering. This poignant statement encapsulates the weight of responsibility and the sense of duty that individuals like Seierstad feel when reporting on harrowing events and documenting the experiences of those affected by conflict, disaster, or social upheaval.

Åsne Seierstad is renowned for her immersive and deeply empathetic approach to journalism, particularly through her acclaimed works such as "The Bookseller of Kabul" and "One of Us: The Story of Anders Breivik and the Massacre in Norway." In these books, she delves into the lives of individuals caught in the throes of extraordinary circumstances, offering a window into their struggles, resilience, and the complexities of human experience in the face of adversity.

The quote speaks to the profound connection that Seierstad establishes with the subjects of her reporting, as well as the ethical dilemma that journalists often grapple with when confronted by the suffering of others. It conveys a sense of moral obligation and the fear of abandoning those whose stories have become intertwined with the journalist's own sense of reality.

In the context of reporting from conflict zones or disaster-stricken areas, the quote embodies the notion that leaving the scene of devastation equates to a form of betrayal or abandonment. The journalist, having borne witness to the trauma and tragedy, may feel a deep sense of responsibility to continue amplifying the voices of those affected, to ensure that their stories are not forgotten or overlooked.

The quote also alludes to the immersive nature of journalism, where the act of witnessing and documenting events can become inseparable from one's own identity and perception of reality. It underscores the potential psychological toll that journalism, particularly war journalism, can exact on those who choose to confront the rawest aspects of human suffering in their pursuit of truth and accountability.

Furthermore, the quote suggests a profound awareness of the power dynamics at play in journalism, where the act of leaving may signal a loss of agency and a relinquishment of the ability to bear witness and advocate for those whose experiences have been thrust into the public consciousness.

Ultimately, Seierstad's quote encapsulates the deeply personal and ethical dimensions of journalism, highlighting the emotional entanglement between the journalist and the subjects of their reporting. It serves as a reminder of the enduring impact that witnessing and documenting human suffering can have on those who choose to confront the harsh realities of the world in pursuit of truth and justice.

In conclusion, Åsne Seierstad's quote, "If I leave, reality will devour me. Then they will all really be dead," encapsulates the profound sense of responsibility, moral obligation, and emotional entanglement that journalists may experience when bearing witness to tragedy and suffering. It serves as a poignant reminder of the ethical and psychological complexities inherent in the practice of journalism, particularly in contexts marked by conflict, disaster, and human tragedy.