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It is very seldom,” the young man said at last, “that…

“It is very seldom,” the young man said at last, “that dragons ask to do men favours.” “But it is very common,” said the dragon, “for cats to play with mice before they kill them.” quote by Ursula K. Le Guin
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““It is very seldom,” the young man said at last, “that dragons ask to do men favours.” “But it is very common,” said the dragon, “for cats to play with mice before they kill them.””

Ursula K. Le Guin

About This Quote

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

Dragons claim they rarely help humans, yet they often toy with prey before killing, showing hidden cruelty.

In simple terms: Dragons pretend to be kind but enjoy cruelty.

Key Takeaway

Beware hidden motives behind kindness.

Themes

power deception violence

Mood

cautious thoughtful

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • political negotiations
  • business deals
  • personal relationships

Key Concepts

mythology ethics

Questions to Reflect On

  • What signs reveal true intentions?
  • How do you confront subtle cruelty?
A Different Perspective

May overgeneralize animal behavior.

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