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I read once about a kind of fungus that grows in trees…

“I read once about a kind of fungus that grows in trees. The fungus begins to encroach on the systems that carry water and nutrients up from the roots to the branches. It disables them one by one―it crowds them out. Soon, the fungus―and only the fungus―is carrying the water, and the chemicals, and…” quote by Lauren Oliver
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““I read once about a kind of fungus that grows in trees. The fungus begins to encroach on the systems that carry water and nutrients up from the roots to the branches. It disables them one by one―it crowds them out. Soon, the fungus―and only the fungus―is carrying the water, and the chemicals, and everything else the tree needs to survive. At the same time it is decaying the tree slowly from within, turning it minute by minute to rot. That is what hatred is. It will feed you and at the same time turn you to rot. It is hard and deep and angular, a system of blockades. It is everything and total.””

Lauren Oliver

About This Quote

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

Hatred is likened to a parasitic fungus that feeds while destroying its host from within, illustrating its corrosive nature.

In simple terms: Hatred consumes and rots you.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and address hatred early.

Themes

hatred destruction parasitic growth

Mood

cautionary reflective

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • relationships
  • personal growth
  • conflict resolution
  • mental health

Key Concepts

psychology toxic emotions

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does hatred manifest in your life?
  • What steps can you take to transform it?
A Different Perspective

Hatred can also motivate change if redirected.

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