Meaning: This quote by Tahar Jelloun, a Moroccan-French author, poet, and essayist, reflects on the challenges faced by intellectuals who dare to voice their opposition in a society that may not always welcome dissent. The quote suggests that intellectuals strive to persevere despite the difficulties they encounter, and often face significant repercussions for expressing their viewpoints.

In many societies, intellectuals are seen as individuals who possess knowledge, critical thinking skills, and the ability to analyze and interpret complex issues. They often play a crucial role in shaping public discourse, challenging prevailing narratives, and advocating for social and political change. However, their willingness to question authority and advocate for change can also make them vulnerable to backlash and persecution.

The quote highlights the courage required to voice opposition in the face of adversity. Intellectuals who challenge the status quo may face various forms of retaliation, including censorship, harassment, imprisonment, or even physical harm. This can create a daunting and perilous environment for those who seek to speak out against injustice, corruption, and oppression.

Tahar Jelloun's quote alludes to the high personal cost that many intellectuals have paid for their dissent. Throughout history, numerous thinkers, writers, and activists have endured persecution and hardship for their outspokenness. From political dissidents and human rights advocates to artists and journalists, individuals who have dared to challenge authoritarian regimes, societal norms, or entrenched power structures have often faced severe consequences for their actions.

The quote also sheds light on the systemic challenges that intellectuals encounter in their pursuit of truth and justice. In many societies, freedom of expression is constrained, dissent is suppressed, and intellectual independence is undermined. This can create a hostile environment for those who seek to engage in critical inquiry, scholarship, and activism.

Despite these formidable obstacles, Tahar Jelloun's quote suggests that intellectuals continue to strive to "keep going." Their unwavering commitment to speaking out, challenging the status quo, and advocating for change demonstrates a resilience and determination to uphold their principles, even in the face of adversity.

Overall, Tahar Jelloun's quote encapsulates the arduous and often perilous journey that intellectuals embark upon when they choose to voice their opposition. It underscores the bravery, sacrifices, and struggles that many individuals endure in their pursuit of truth, justice, and a better world. The quote serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges and risks faced by those who dare to question, critique, and challenge the prevailing order, and the enduring resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.