Meaning: This quote by David Guterson, the author of the novel "Snow Falling on Cedars," speaks to the idea of individual agency within the constraints of one's circumstances. The quote suggests that each person is limited by the inherent qualities of their voice, both literal and metaphorical, but within those limitations, there exists a degree of freedom to explore and express different aspects of one's identity.

On a literal level, the quote can be interpreted as a reflection on the unique vocal characteristics that each individual possesses. Our voices are determined by physical attributes such as vocal cords and resonating chambers, as well as by factors such as accent and speech patterns that are influenced by our upbringing and environment. In this sense, we are indeed "condemned to the voice we have" in that we cannot fundamentally change the sound of our natural speaking voice.

However, Guterson's quote also suggests that despite this inherent constraint, individuals still have the ability to adapt and modify their communication style. This can involve consciously altering the tone, pitch, and inflection of one's speech to suit different situations or audiences. It also extends to the content of what is being expressed - the "voices" we use to convey our thoughts, feelings, and perspectives to others.

Metaphorically, the quote can be understood as a commentary on the broader notion of identity and self-expression. We all operate within certain boundaries or "confines," whether they be societal expectations, personal limitations, or external circumstances. These constraints may include cultural norms, gender roles, economic status, or other factors that shape our lives and the ways in which we are perceived by others.

Despite these constraints, Guterson suggests that there is still room for individual agency and self-determination. We are not completely defined by our circumstances; rather, we have the "freedom to range among [our] possible voices." This implies that we can choose how we present ourselves to the world, selecting from the various facets of our identity and adapting our behaviors and expressions to different contexts.

In the context of writing, this idea of "voices" can also be understood as the different perspectives or narrative styles that an author can employ. Writers have the ability to craft distinct voices for their characters, each with its own unique traits, language, and perspective. Similarly, authors themselves can adopt different voices in their storytelling, shifting between different tones, points of view, and narrative techniques.

In conclusion, David Guterson's quote encapsulates the complex interplay between individual agency and external constraints. It acknowledges the limitations we face in terms of our inherent qualities and circumstances, but also emphasizes the creative freedom we possess to navigate and shape our own identities and expressions. Whether applied to literal vocal characteristics, communication styles, or broader aspects of self-expression, the quote invites us to consider the dynamic interplay between constraint and freedom in shaping our voices.