In the essay, “A Quilt of a Country,” the author, Anna Quindlen explains the nation in figurative and symbolic terms, comparing it to a quilt that is “built of bits and pieces that seem discordant,” yet is in unity, as one. She describes the importance of individualism and community in her essay. Anna Quindlen presents the idea that “terrorism has led to devastation – and unity,” identifying the importance of devastation, as it unites the country together, in a time of need. She continues to use different literary allusions to supply examples of paradox. The paradox refers to the idea that the nation needs all individuals to come together during a destructive time such as 9/11. Without individualism, it is hard to be united as a country. The