Thus it is that they whom we denominate "savages" are made…
““Thus it is that they whom we denominate "savages" are made to deserve the title. When the inhabitants of some sequestered island first descry the "big canoe" of the European rolling through the blue waters towards their shores, they rush down to the beach in crowds, and with open arms stand ready to embrace the strangers. Fatal embrace! They fold to their bosoms the vipers whose sting is destined to poison all their joys; and the instinctive feeling of love within their breasts is soon converted into the bitterest hate.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
When strangers arrive, natives welcome them, but this openness can be exploited, turning love into hatred.
In simple terms: Welcoming strangers can lead to betrayal.
Key Takeaway
Beware of blind hospitality.
Themes
colonialism
trust
betrayal
culture clash
Mood
cautious
critical
historical
Type
reflective
analytical
When to use this quote
- historical encounters
- modern immigration
- cross‑cultural relations
- political policy
Key Concepts
power dynamics
othering
fear of the unknown
Questions to Reflect On
- How does hospitality become danger?
- What safeguards can prevent exploitation?
A Different Perspective
Not all encounters end negatively; context matters.