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Color Quote by Antoine de Saint-Exupery

“So the little prince tamed the fox. And when the hour of his departure drew near-- Ah," said the fox, "I shall cry." It is your own fault," said the little prince. "I never wished you any sort of harm; but you wanted me to tame you . . ." Yes, that is so," said the fox. But now you are going to…” quote by Antoine de Saint-Exupery
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“So the little prince tamed the fox. And when the hour of his departure drew near-- Ah," said the fox, "I shall cry." It is your own fault," said the little prince. "I never wished you any sort of harm; but you wanted me to tame you . . ." Yes, that is so," said the fox. But now you are going to cry!" said the little prince. Yes, that is so," said the fox. Then it has done you no good at all!" It has done me good," said the fox, "because of the color of the wheat fields.”

Antoine de Saint-Exupery

About This Quote

Source Book: The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupery, 1943

The fox warns that taming creates dependence and sorrow; the prince acknowledges responsibility for the fox’s tears.

In simple terms: Taming creates attachment and pain.

Key Takeaway

Recognize the cost of emotional bonds.

Themes

friendship responsibility loss attachment growth

Mood

bittersweet thoughtful

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • parent‑child dynamics
  • mentorship
  • romantic relationships
  • pet ownership

Key Concepts

philosophy empathy relationships

Questions to Reflect On

  • What responsibilities come with deep connections?
  • Can attachment be both painful and rewarding?
A Different Perspective

The fox’s tears may also reflect joy, not just sorrow.

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