They're ugly, but those are the facts of life.
Harper LeeRead
They've done it before and they'll do it again and when they do it -- seems that only the children weep. Good night.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote reflects on the cyclical nature of human behavior and the resulting impact on innocence, particularly seen through the eyes of children.
Harper Lee's quote highlights the repetition of historical events and actions by people, suggesting that despite the knowledge of past mistakes, they are likely to be repeated. It reflects upon the emotional toll these actions have, particularly on children, who are often the most affected by the consequences of adult decisions, causing a sense of sorrow and loss of innocence among the young.
Themes
HistoryChildrenInnocenceRepetitionSorrow
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a discussion about the consequences of war on children.
More from Harper Lee
All quotes →It's better to be silent than to be a fool.
Harper LeeRead
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.
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With him, life was routine; without him, life was unbearable.
Harper LeeRead
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.
Harper LeeRead
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.
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