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Right?” he said. “I think we are all incredibly silly to…

“Right?” he said. “I think we are all incredibly silly to stay. I think that an atmosphere like this one can find out the flaws and faults and weaknesses in all of us, and break us apart in a matter of days. We have only one defense, and that is running away. At least it can’t follow us, can it?…” quote by Shirley Jackson
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““Right?” he said. “I think we are all incredibly silly to stay. I think that an atmosphere like this one can find out the flaws and faults and weaknesses in all of us, and break us apart in a matter of days. We have only one defense, and that is running away. At least it can’t follow us, can it? When we feel ourselves endangered we can leave, just as we came. And,” he added dryly, “just as fast as we can go.””

Shirley Jackson

About This Quote

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

When danger looms, people instinctively flee, believing escape is the only safeguard against being broken.

In simple terms: Fear makes us want to run away.

Key Takeaway

Recognize when avoidance is harmful and confront challenges.

Themes

fear escape vulnerability

Mood

anxious reflective

Type

cautionary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • personal crisis
  • relationship breakdown
  • health emergencies
  • social unrest

Key Concepts

psychology survival instinct self‑preservation

Questions to Reflect On

  • What are you avoiding that you think will protect you?
  • Can escape ever truly protect you?
A Different Perspective

Running away only postpones the problem; confronting it builds resilience.

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