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That man would betray his own shadow. And for what? A…

“That man would betray his own shadow. And for what? A child's tale.' 'Is it?' Mag looked at her. 'Is it only a tale?' For a moment, the purple eyes grew dark, black as the little rags of shadows that Mag saw on empty streets or patches of barren ground, attached to nothing, seemingly blown at…” quote by Patricia A. McKillip
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““That man would betray his own shadow. And for what? A child's tale.' 'Is it?' Mag looked at her. 'Is it only a tale?' For a moment, the purple eyes grew dark, black as the little rags of shadows that Mag saw on empty streets or patches of barren ground, attached to nothing, seemingly blown at random from some place adrift in light.””

Patricia A. McKillip

About This Quote

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

The passage explores betrayal of self, using shadow imagery to reflect inner darkness and aimless wandering.

In simple terms: Betrayal of self leads to darkness and confusion.

Key Takeaway

Guard your inner truth.

Themes

identity betrayal shadow inner darkness

Mood

mysterious reflective

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • creative writing
  • self‑reflection
  • mental health counseling

Key Concepts

psychology mythic symbolism existential angst

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does your “shadow” represent?
  • How can you reconnect with your authentic self?
A Different Perspective

Shadow metaphor may be too abstract for some readers.

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