Meaning: This quote by Juan Goytisolo, a Spanish poet and novelist, reflects the experience of cultural and psychological alienation that many individuals encounter when living away from their native country. Goytisolo's words encapsulate the profound sense of disconnection and estrangement that can arise when one's physical distance from their homeland is compounded by a growing disparity in values and perspectives with those around them.

Goytisolo's personal history sheds light on the context of this quote. He was born in Barcelona, Spain, in 1931, and spent a significant portion of his life living in exile due to the political turmoil in his home country. This experience of physical displacement and the subsequent psychological and emotional upheaval is palpable in his literary works, including the quote in question.

The phrase "I not only lived physically away from my native land" addresses the physical separation from one's place of origin. This physical distance can engender a sense of longing, nostalgia, and a yearning for familiarity. However, Goytisolo goes beyond the physical aspect of exile and delves into the emotional and psychological ramifications of this separation.

The latter part of the quote, "but the values and critical judgments of those closest to me became stranger and stranger," delves into the dissonance that arises when one's core values and beliefs diverge from those of the people in their immediate surroundings. This dissonance can lead to a deepening sense of alienation and a feeling of being out of place, even among those with whom one is physically close.

Goytisolo's use of the word "stranger" in this context is particularly poignant, as it conveys the growing sense of unfamiliarity and disconnect that can permeate one's interactions and relationships in a new cultural milieu. The values and critical judgments that once formed the foundation of understanding and connection with others become increasingly distant and incomprehensible, further exacerbating the sense of isolation and estrangement.

This quote speaks to the universal human experience of grappling with cultural displacement, whether it be due to political upheaval, economic migration, or personal choice. It captures the complex interplay between physical distance and emotional detachment, shedding light on the profound impact of these experiences on an individual's sense of self and belonging.

In the broader context of literature and art, Goytisolo's quote resonates with the themes of identity, displacement, and the search for belonging that have been explored by countless writers and artists throughout history. It also invites reflection on the fluid and evolving nature of cultural and personal identities, and the ways in which these identities can be shaped and reshaped by the forces of geography, history, and human connection.

In conclusion, Juan Goytisolo's quote encapsulates the poignant and multifaceted experience of living away from one's native land, shedding light on the emotional and psychological complexities that accompany such displacement. It serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring human quest for connection, understanding, and a place to call home.