You are asking us to lie, Colonel?" "I am asking you to…
““You are asking us to lie, Colonel?" "I am asking you to omit. Surely, amidst the...the infinite gradations of human venality, that particular sin ranks low." The old man kneaded the folds of his throat. "What happened out there belongs out there. The jungle has it; let the jungle keep it...””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
A character refuses to conceal truth, arguing that some sins are minor compared to larger evils, and that the jungle (nature) should keep its secrets.
In simple terms: Refusing to hide truth, believing some sins are minor and nature should keep its secrets.
Key Takeaway
Accept responsibility for truth, even if uncomfortable.
Themes
ethics
truth
nature
secrecy
Mood
conflicted
reflective
Type
philosophical
dramatic
When to use this quote
- journalism
- legal investigations
- personal dilemmas
- environmental ethics
Key Concepts
morality
human frailty
justice
Questions to Reflect On
- Is all truth worth revealing?
- When should nature be allowed to keep secrets?
A Different Perspective
Truth may cause harm or conflict; sometimes silence protects.