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There may be people who like centipedes... Personally, I…

“There may be people who like centipedes... Personally, I would regard such an individual with deep suspicion. I have just petted my cat: "And how is this good little cat beast?" Now what sort of man or woman or monster would stroke a centipede on his underbelly? "And here is my good big…” quote by William S. Burroughs
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““There may be people who like centipedes... Personally, I would regard such an individual with deep suspicion. I have just petted my cat: "And how is this good little cat beast?" Now what sort of man or woman or monster would stroke a centipede on his underbelly? "And here is my good big centipede!" If such a man exists, I say kill him without more ado. He is a traitor to the human race.””

William S. Burroughs

About This Quote

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

The speaker expresses extreme revulsion toward anyone who admires or handles centipedes, labeling them a threat to humanity.

In simple terms: Disgust for centipede lovers; they are dangerous.

Key Takeaway

Reject or distance from those who embrace the grotesque.

Themes

revulsion other humanity

Mood

disgust anger

Type

political controversial

When to use this quote

  • social interactions
  • online debates
  • personal boundaries
  • cultural taboos

Key Concepts

moral panic othering extremism

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do you ever judge others for harmless oddities?
  • What defines a true threat to humanity?
A Different Perspective

The hyperbolic threat may alienate legitimate dissent or curiosity.

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