Meaning: This quote by Neil Jordan, an Irish film director, reflects on the impact of growing up in Ireland, a country with a long history of political violence. In this quote, Jordan acknowledges the pervasive presence of political violence in his formative years and suggests that it would be impossible to ignore its influence. To fully understand the significance of this quote, it is essential to delve into the historical and cultural context of Ireland, as well as Neil Jordan's background and career.

Ireland has a complex and tumultuous history characterized by political conflict, particularly between the nationalist and unionist communities in Northern Ireland. The Troubles, a period of intense violence and political unrest that lasted from the late 1960s to the late 1990s, had a profound impact on the entire island of Ireland. The conflict involved paramilitary groups, the British Army, and the Royal Ulster Constabulary, resulting in a significant loss of life and widespread social and economic upheaval.

Growing up in this environment, Neil Jordan would have been directly affected by the pervasive atmosphere of political violence and its ramifications. As a young adult in Ireland during the late 1960s and early 1970s, he would have witnessed the escalation of the conflict and its impact on society. This period of his life likely shaped his understanding of the complexities of political violence and its enduring consequences.

In his quote, Jordan's use of the term "consciously blinkered" suggests a deliberate refusal to acknowledge or engage with the reality of political violence. This implies that the issue of political violence was so prevalent in Ireland during his youth that it would be impossible for anyone to remain unaffected or unaware of its existence. His acknowledgment of this pervasive influence underscores the profound and inescapable nature of political violence in his formative years.

Neil Jordan's personal experiences and reflections on political violence in Ireland have significantly influenced his work as a filmmaker. Throughout his career, he has explored themes of conflict, identity, and the impact of historical events on individuals and societies. Films such as "Michael Collins," which depicts the life and death of the Irish revolutionary leader, and "The Crying Game," which delves into the complexities of personal and political allegiances, demonstrate Jordan's engagement with the legacy of political violence in Ireland.

Furthermore, Jordan's quote provides insight into the broader societal impact of political violence. It highlights the profound and enduring effects of such conflict on individuals, communities, and the collective consciousness of a nation. By acknowledging the impossibility of ignoring the issue, Jordan emphasizes the deep-seated nature of political violence and its lasting repercussions on those who experience it.

In conclusion, Neil Jordan's quote offers a poignant reflection on the inescapable influence of political violence in Ireland and its profound impact on his personal and professional life. It underscores the pervasive nature of conflict and the enduring legacy of historical events on individuals and society. Through his work as a filmmaker, Jordan continues to engage with these themes, contributing to a deeper understanding of the complexities of political violence and its far-reaching consequences.