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The thoughts of his mind, besides, were of the gloomiest…

“The thoughts of his mind, besides, were of the gloomiest dye; and when he glanced at the companion of his drive, he was conscious of some touch of that terror of the law and the law’s officers, which may at times assail the most honest.” quote by Robert Louis Stevenson
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““The thoughts of his mind, besides, were of the gloomiest dye; and when he glanced at the companion of his drive, he was conscious of some touch of that terror of the law and the law’s officers, which may at times assail the most honest.””

Robert Louis Stevenson

About This Quote

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

The character feels deep dread of law enforcement, reflecting a pervasive fear that can haunt even the most honest people.

In simple terms: Fear of authority can grip anyone, even the upright.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and confront underlying anxieties.

Themes

fear law psychology guilt authority

Mood

tense reflective

Type

literary psychological

When to use this quote

  • courtroom testimony
  • police encounters
  • personal introspection
  • ethical dilemmas

Key Concepts

anxiety social control moral conflict

Questions to Reflect On

  • What triggers your fear of authority?
  • How can you differentiate rational caution from irrational dread?
A Different Perspective

Fear may be exaggerated by personal bias, not just external threats.

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