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So tell us," says Connor, "in The World According to…

“So tell us," says Connor, "in The World According to Hayden, when do we start to live?" A long silence from Hayden, and then he says quietly, uneasily, "I don't know." Emby razzes him. "That's not an answer." But Connor reaches out and grabs Emby's arm, to shut him up- because Emby's wrong. Even…” quote by Neal Shusterman
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““So tell us," says Connor, "in The World According to Hayden, when do we start to live?" A long silence from Hayden, and then he says quietly, uneasily, "I don't know." Emby razzes him. "That's not an answer." But Connor reaches out and grabs Emby's arm, to shut him up- because Emby's wrong. Even though Connor can't see Hayden's face, he can hear the truth of it in his voice. There was no hint of evasion in Hayden's words. This was raw honesty, void of Hayden's usual flip attitude. It was perhaps the first truly honest thing Connor had ever heard him say. "Yes, it is an answer," Connor says. "Maybe it's the best answer of all. If more people could admit they really don't know, maybe there never would have been a Heartland War.””

Neal Shusterman

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 admits uncertainty, suggesting that honest admission of not knowing could prevent conflict.

In simple terms: Admitting ignorance may be wise.

Key Takeaway

Embrace honest uncertainty.

Themes

honesty conflict knowledge communication war

Mood

thoughtful reflective

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • personal growth
  • leadership
  • conflict resolution
  • public discourse

Key Concepts

philosophical psychology politics

Questions to Reflect On

  • What would happen if more leaders admitted they didn’t know?
  • How does honesty affect trust?
A Different Perspective

Admitting ignorance can be seen as weakness or indecision.

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