The Truths We Hold: An American Journey

Content Warning: This section of the guide discusses racism and violence.

“I believe there is no more important and consequential antidote for these times than a reciprocal relationship of trust. You give and you receive trust. And one of the most important ingredients in a relationship of trust is that we speak truth. It matters what we say. What we mean. The value we place on our words—and what they are worth to others. We cannot solve our most intractable problems unless we are honest about what they are, unless we are willing to have difficult conversations and accept what facts make plain.”

Harris presents truth-telling as a crucial component of trust. The quote employs repetition and parallel structure to stress key points, such as “It matters what we say. What we mean.” This rhetorical device reinforces the importance of clear, honest communication. The use of short, declarative sentences creates a tone of certainty and conviction. Harris also introduces the idea that solving difficult problems requires confronting uncomfortable truths and engaging in challenging discussions. This foreshadows the book’s approach to addressing complex social and political issues through open, honest dialogue.

“First, my name is pronounced ‘comma-la,’ like the punctuation mark. It means ‘lotus flower,’ which is a symbol of significance in Indian culture. A lotus grows underwater, its flower rising above the surface while its roots are planted firmly in the river bottom.”

This quote serves multiple purposes within the context of The Truths We Hold. Firstly, it provides a personal touch, allowing readers to correctly pronounce Harris’s name and understand its meaning; this gesture creates a sense of intimacy. The explanation of her name’s meaning introduces a metaphor that resonates throughout the book. The lotus flower, growing from the depths to bloom above the surface, symbolizes resilience, growth, and the ability to rise above challenges. This aligns with Harris’s narrative of overcoming obstacles and ascending in her political career. This quote also subtly acknowledges Harris’s Indian heritage, introducing the topic of cultural identity that recurs throughout the book.