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The parson refused to believe the Apothecary could help…

“The parson refused to believe the Apothecary could help, said the monster. When times were easy, the parson nearly destroyed the Apothecary, but when the going grew tough, he was willing to throw aside every belief if it would save his daughters. "So?" Conor said. "So would anyone! So would…” quote by Patrick Ness
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““ The parson refused to believe the Apothecary could help, said the monster. When times were easy, the parson nearly destroyed the Apothecary, but when the going grew tough, he was willing to throw aside every belief if it would save his daughters. "So?" Conor said. "So would anyone! So would everyone ! What did you expect him to do?””

Patrick Ness

About This Quote

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

Desperation can make people abandon long‑held beliefs to protect loved ones.

In simple terms: When stakes are high, belief can be discarded.

Key Takeaway

Values shift under pressure.

Themes

family belief desperation

Mood

tense dramatic

Type

philosophical narrative

When to use this quote

  • war zones
  • family emergencies
  • moral crises

Key Concepts

ethical dilemmas survival instincts parental love

Questions to Reflect On

  • What would you sacrifice for family?
  • When is it right to abandon belief?
A Different Perspective

Moral flexibility may lead to regret.

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