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I was, not an altar boy, but a reader of the Epistle, and…

“I was, not an altar boy, but a reader of the Epistle, and I walked in on a nun and a priest furiously French kissing when I was in seventh grade. I walked in, saw it, and went, "No way," backed out, composed myself, and went back in, and it was still going on. And the experience of seeing that was…” quote by George Saunders
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“I was, not an altar boy, but a reader of the Epistle, and I walked in on a nun and a priest furiously French kissing when I was in seventh grade. I walked in, saw it, and went, "No way," backed out, composed myself, and went back in, and it was still going on. And the experience of seeing that was actually very deep.”

George Saunders

About This Quote

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

A shocking, unexpected encounter reveals hidden adult behaviors, challenging innocence and prompting self‑control.

In simple terms: Seeing something shocking tests composure.

Key Takeaway

Maintain composure when faced with surprise.

Themes

innocence surprise self‑control

Mood

conflicted intrigued

Type

narrative reflective

When to use this quote

  • seventh‑grade classroom
  • unexpected adult behavior
  • personal boundaries

Key Concepts

human sexuality power dynamics

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you react when confronted with unexpected adult behavior?
  • What does this reveal about hidden dynamics in institutions?
A Different Perspective

The anecdote may be exaggerated for effect, limiting factual reliability.

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