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Old Gertie Simmons used to have a squint and she was…

“Old Gertie Simmons used to have a squint and she was always putting the evil influence on the end of her own nose. We can’t have people thinkin’ that if you upsets a witch she curses and mutters and then her own nose drops off.” quote by Terry Pratchett
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““Old Gertie Simmons used to have a squint and she was always putting the evil influence on the end of her own nose. We can’t have people thinkin’ that if you upsets a witch she curses and mutters and then her own nose drops off.””

Terry Pratchett

About This Quote

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

A humorous warning that blaming external forces for personal misfortunes can be absurd and self‑defeating.

In simple terms: Don’t blame bad luck for your own problems.

Key Takeaway

Take responsibility for your actions.

Themes

humor responsibility superstition

Mood

lighthearted reflective

Type

satirical cautionary

When to use this quote

  • personal setbacks
  • workplace conflicts
  • relationship issues
  • health challenges

Key Concepts

self‑blame magical realism

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you recognize when you’re blaming yourself unfairly?
  • What role do cultural myths play in personal accountability?
A Different Perspective

It may overlook systemic factors that truly cause hardship.

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