Ama Ata Aidoo: 'At the age of 15, a teacher had asked me what I wanted to do for a career, and without knowing why or even how I replied that I wanted to be a poet.'

At the age of 15, a teacher had asked me what I wanted to do for a career, and without knowing why or even how I replied that I wanted to be a poet.

The quote by Ama Ata Aidoo, where she recalls a pivotal moment at the age of 15 when she declared her desire to be a poet to a teacher, captures the essence of following one's passion and intuition despite uncertainty. It highlights the power of inner calling and how it can shape our paths in life. The significance lies in Aidoo's spontaneous response, not fueled by logic or reason but by a deep-seated connection to the art of poetry. It speaks to the importance of listening to our inner voice and being true to our authentic selves, even if the way forward appears unclear at the time. This quote can be seen as an inspiration for individuals to trust their instincts and pursue their dreams wholeheartedly, regardless of societal expectations or practical considerations.To delve deeper into the philosophical underpinnings of this quote, we can introduce the concept of existentialism. Existentialism emphasizes individual freedom, choice, and responsibility in creating one's own meaning in life. Aidoo's declaration of wanting to be a poet at a young age can be viewed through an existentialist lens as an expression of her authentic self and a choice to pursue a path that resonated with her inner being. Existentialism posits that individuals define themselves through their actions and decisions, and Aidoo's bold assertion reflects her willingness to embrace her individuality and craft her own identity.In contrast, traditional societal norms and expectations often dictate predefined paths for individuals, leading to conformity and a sense of alienation from one's true self. The contrast between following one's inner calling, as exemplified by Aidoo's quote, and adhering to external pressures highlights the tension between authenticity and conformity in shaping one's life choices. Existentialism challenges individuals to confront this tension and take ownership of their existence by making authentic choices that align with their values and aspirations.Ultimately, the quote by Ama Ata Aidoo inspires us to reflect on the role of passion, intuition, and authenticity in shaping our destinies. It encourages us to embrace the uncertainty of the future and trust in our inner voice to guide us towards a fulfilling and meaningful life. By weaving in the philosophical concept of existentialism, we deepen our understanding of the quote's underlying themes and open up new avenues for introspection and self-discovery.