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Mothers see the angel in us because the angel is there. If…

“Mothers see the angel in us because the angel is there. If it's shown to the mother, the son has got an angel to show, hasn't he? When a son cuts somebody's throat the mother only sees it's possible for a misguided angel to act like a devil - and she's entirely right about that!” quote by Booth Tarkington
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“Mothers see the angel in us because the angel is there. If it's shown to the mother, the son has got an angel to show, hasn't he? When a son cuts somebody's throat the mother only sees it's possible for a misguided angel to act like a devil - and she's entirely right about that!”

Booth Tarkington

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Mothers instinctively recognize the goodness in their children, but also see the potential for that goodness to be corrupted.

In simple terms: Mothers see both good and bad in children.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and nurture the good while guarding against corruption.

Themes

parenthood innocence corruption perception morality

Mood

protective reflective

Type

philosophical observational

When to use this quote

  • family dynamics
  • child development
  • education
  • moral guidance

Key Concepts

human nature dualism ethical vigilance

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you balance seeing the best in others with realistic expectations?
  • What safeguards can prevent good intentions from turning harmful?
A Different Perspective

The view may be overly idealistic, ignoring external influences that shape behavior.

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