“I've been scarred and battered”
— Langston Hughes
Simplified Meaning:
Sometimes in life, people go through tough times that leave them hurt and feeling beaten down. Imagine someone who has faced many challenges, like losing a job, dealing with a family problem, or struggling with illness. These experiences can leave deep marks on a person, much like a scar on the skin. This doesn't just mean physical pain, but also emotional pain which can be very hard to endure. For example, a person who grew up in difficult conditions might feel 'scarred and battered' as they have faced many difficulties that have shaped who they are. However, surviving these challenges often means that person has grown stronger and more resilient. They can use their past experiences to help them face new problems, knowing they have overcome tough times before.