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Small Man can be a very funny or a very tiresome Tour…

“Small Man can be a very funny or a very tiresome Tour Companion, depending on how this kind of thing grabs you. He gambles, he drinks too much and he always runs away. Since the Rules allow him to make Jokes, he will excuse his behaviour in a variety of comical ways. Physically he is stunted and…” quote by Diana Wynne Jones
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“Small Man can be a very funny or a very tiresome Tour Companion, depending on how this kind of thing grabs you. He gambles, he drinks too much and he always runs away. Since the Rules allow him to make Jokes, he will excuse his behaviour in a variety of comical ways. Physically he is stunted and not at all handsome, although he usually dresses flamboyantly. He tends to wear hats with feathers in. You will discover he is very vain. But, if you can avoid smacking him, you will come to tolerate if not love him. He will contrive, in some cowardly way, to play a major part in saving the world.”

Diana Wynne Jones

About This Quote

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

A quirky, flawed companion can be both irritating and endearing, ultimately playing a crucial role despite his vices.

In simple terms: A funny, annoying sidekick can become valuable.

Key Takeaway

Accept imperfections; find value in unlikely allies.

Themes

friendship flaws heroism acceptance humor

Mood

amused reflective hopeful

Type

literary character study inspirational

When to use this quote

  • team adventures
  • personal growth
  • conflict resolution
  • leadership challenges

Key Concepts

character development redemption social dynamics

Questions to Reflect On

  • Can you appreciate strengths in someone despite their faults?
  • How does humor affect trust?
A Different Perspective

His selfishness may hinder group cohesion.

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