They're ugly, but those are the facts of life.
Harper LeeRead
I'm no idealist to believe firmly in the integrity of our courts and in the jury system - that is no ideal to me, it is a living, working reality.
Interpretation
The quote emphasizes a grounded belief in the justice system, perceiving it not as an ideal but as a functional reality.
Harper Lee expresses a pragmatic faith in the justice system and the jury process, suggesting that these institutions operate effectively and are integral to societal order. Rather than viewing them as lofty ideals, she regards them as essential components of everyday life that uphold integrity and justice.
In practice
During a legal seminar discussing the importance of the jury system.
They're ugly, but those are the facts of life.
It's better to be silent than to be a fool.
Don’t talk like that, Dill,” said Aunt Alexandra. “It’s not becoming to a child. It’s – cynical.” “I ain’t cynical, Miss Alexandra. Tellin’ the truth’s not cynical, is it?” “The way you tell it, it is.
With him, life was routine; without him, life was unbearable.
He turned out the light and went into Jem's room. He would be there all night, and he would be there when Jem waked up in the morning.
You can choose your friends but you sho' can't choose your family, an' they're still kin to you no matter whether you acknowledge 'em or not, and it makes you look right silly when you don't.
There is not a crime, there is not a dodge, there is not a trick, there is not a swindle, there is not a vice which does not live by secrecy.
Democracy not only requires equality but also an unshakable conviction in the value of each person, who is then equal
The uniformity and obedience of the media, which any dictator would admire...
The intolerance of the few, or the risk of it, carries the day against the wider humanity of the many.
I'm interested in what motivates individuals to participate in atrocious acts to support their ideological identification.
The thing that moves us to pride or shame is not the mere mechanical reflection of ourselves but the imagined effect of this reflection upon another's mind.
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