Meaning: The quote, "I think of my brother just out of prison again. He will have spent ten years of the last 30 in prison," by Daniel Berrigan, a clergyman, reflects on the recurring cycle of incarceration and its impact on individuals and their families. Berrigan's poignant reflection highlights the significant and long-lasting effects of imprisonment on individuals and their loved ones.

The quote speaks to the personal experience of Berrigan's brother, who has been in and out of prison multiple times, spending a considerable portion of his life behind bars. The mention of "ten years of the last 30" underscores the cyclical nature of imprisonment, suggesting that the individual has been caught in a pattern of incarceration that has persisted over several decades.

Berrigan's choice of words conveys a sense of contemplation and concern for his brother's situation. The phrase "I think of my brother" suggests that the issue weighs heavily on Berrigan's mind and emotions, indicating a deep sense of empathy and connection to his brother's struggles. The repetition of the phrase "just out of prison again" implies a sense of inevitability and recurrence, emphasizing the revolving door of imprisonment that his brother seems to be caught in.

Furthermore, the quote sheds light on the broader societal issue of recidivism, where individuals who have been incarcerated repeatedly find themselves trapped in a cycle of re-offending and returning to prison. Berrigan's poignant reflection serves as a reminder of the challenges that individuals face in breaking free from this cycle and reintegrating into society.

In addition to the personal and societal implications, the quote also raises questions about the effectiveness of the criminal justice system in addressing the root causes of criminal behavior and providing support for individuals upon their release from prison. Berrigan's brother's experiences underscore the need for comprehensive rehabilitation and reentry programs to help individuals break free from the cycle of incarceration and successfully transition back into their communities.

Overall, Berrigan's quote serves as a powerful reminder of the human toll of imprisonment and the need for a compassionate and holistic approach to addressing the challenges faced by those who have been incarcerated. It prompts us to reflect on the experiences of individuals like Berrigan's brother and consider how we, as a society, can work towards breaking the cycle of recidivism and supporting the successful reintegration of individuals who have been impacted by the criminal justice system.