Why does Zlata Filipovic decide to stop writing about herself in her own diary?

English · Middle School · Tue Nov 03 2020

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Zlata Filipovic, a Bosnian girl, kept a diary during the Bosnian War, which took place in the early 1990s. She documented her experiences and the challenges faced by her family and community during the conflict. Towards the end of her diary, she reflects on the reasons for stopping her personal entries.

One key reason Zlata decides to stop writing about herself is the changing nature of her circumstances. As the war progresses, the situation becomes increasingly dire and dangerous. Zlata and her family endure hardships, including shortages of basic necessities and the constant threat of violence. In such a challenging environment, Zlata's focus shifts from personal reflections to more immediate concerns for survival and safety.

Additionally, Zlata expresses a desire to turn her attention to broader issues affecting her community. She wants to use her writing to raise awareness about the larger social and political issues that contribute to the conflict. By shifting her focus away from personal anecdotes, she aims to convey the gravity of the situation and the impact of the war on a collective level.

In essence, Zlata's decision to stop writing about herself in her diary reflects a maturation of her perspective. She recognizes the need to address the broader context of the war and hopes that her words can contribute to a greater understanding of the challenges faced by the people in Bosnia during that turbulent time.