WHENCE?
Definition
The word whence is an adverb. When used as a question, it asks from what place or source something comes. Whence cometh thou? is asking about your origins, either locational or social. The expression itself is “old English” and not much used anymore, but the query is still common. People want to know not only who you are, but the route by which you arrived amongst them – have a little story ready. Hence, the parameter whence runs from origin to passageway.
Purpose
The intention of this question? The expectation often is that whatever you are is explained and made acceptable by recounting the point of your origin and the history of your subsequent journey. This premise may be an illusion, but it is a strong and persistent one. Depending on the role you have assumed or want to project, your story should tell of incidents and occasions with which your audience can identify.
Explication
Some people put great store by the particulars of your past. Where you were born, your immediate family and distant relatives, the schools you went to, the sports you played, the early jobs wherein you learned life skills and street smarts – all this, and more, is grist for the mill of social identity. Was you family kind, were your schools interesting, did you find your jobs challenging or fulfilling? Who cares, you might think – they do!
Implication
The same people who want to know about your past and subsequent history are those who then want to use the information you provide to influence, perhaps control your life. If they know your life-path, they can share the road with you, slow you down or hurry you up to their speed, take you on their favourite detours, etc. Is this really the road you want to go down? Remember, the journey is only a metaphor – the choice is yours.
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