Meaning: This quote by Edwidge Danticat, a Haitian-American author, encapsulates the frustration and concern for the lack of attention and awareness given to countries experiencing political unrest and turmoil. The quote highlights the tendency of people to only pay attention to a country when it is in the midst of a crisis, such as a coup or mass protests, and subsequently forget about it when the situation seems to have stabilized. The underlying message of the quote emphasizes the need for sustained awareness and engagement with the struggles and challenges faced by nations, even during periods of relative calm.

Edwidge Danticat is known for her poignant portrayals of Haitian culture and history in her works of fiction and non-fiction. Her own personal experiences as a Haitian immigrant have often informed her writing, and she has been vocal about shedding light on the social and political issues affecting Haiti and its people. This quote reflects Danticat's deep concern for the tendency of the international community to overlook ongoing issues in countries like Haiti, only to suddenly take notice when a crisis erupts.

The frustration expressed in the quote is rooted in the phenomenon of "crisis fatigue," where the public and media become desensitized to ongoing issues and only react when a situation reaches a critical point. This tendency can lead to a cycle of neglect, where attention and support wane during periods of relative calm, making it difficult for affected countries to receive the sustained assistance and solidarity they need.

Furthermore, the quote speaks to the broader issue of how certain regions and countries are often marginalized or forgotten in global discourse and media coverage. This selective attention can perpetuate misconceptions and incomplete narratives about these nations, ultimately hindering efforts to address underlying challenges and foster positive change.

Danticat's words serve as a reminder of the importance of consistent awareness and engagement with global issues, beyond the immediate crises that capture headlines. It encourages individuals and the international community to maintain a continuous understanding and empathy for the struggles faced by countries like Haiti, rather than allowing them to fade into the background until the next upheaval occurs.

In a world where the news cycle quickly moves on to the next sensational story, Danticat's quote prompts us to consider the long-term impact of our collective attention and support. By keeping the spotlight on countries experiencing ongoing challenges, we can contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of their complexities and advocate for sustained efforts to address systemic issues.

In conclusion, Edwidge Danticat's quote powerfully conveys the frustration and urgency of ensuring that countries facing persistent challenges do not fade from the collective consciousness during periods of relative calm. It serves as a call to action for sustained awareness, empathy, and support for nations like Haiti, emphasizing the need to move beyond crisis-driven attention and engage with the ongoing struggles and aspirations of these communities.