The Cost of Freedom by Julie

The Cost of Freedom by Julie - October 2021 Scholarship Essay

Freedom comes at a price. To have a taste of that exhilarating independence, you must give something in return. That is the driving lesson I learned in Persepolis.

In the novel, Marjane is a Iranian refugee who escapes the restrictive confines of her homeland to live freely in Austria. However, as she discovers, she has to pay for that freedom. In exchange for her independence, she gives up her entire support network; her loving family, her friends, and even the security that comes with her deep knowledge of Iran. In Austria, she is left in the dark.

She tries to make the most out of life in Europe; enjoying parties, experimental fashion, and new friends of varied religious backgrounds. However, she is soon faced with the reality that without anyone else there to truly support her, she is vulnerable, which is apparent when she becomes homeless and broke with nowhere to turn.

This resonated deeply within me. All throughout my childhood, I have fantasized about being freed from my life- my job, my responsibilities, my doubts- without truly considering the cost of such a wish. In order to get something, you have to give something in return. I could not achieve my dream without giving up all that is dear to me. After all, I cannot discard my life without also leaving my family, friends, and the happiness I’ve found here. I could leave, once I am of age, but would it be worth it given how much I would have to sacrifice?

That’s why Persepolis means so much to me. It’s honest and heartbreaking, and it reveals a painful truth. Freedom absolutely comes at a cost.