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Freedom Quote by Barbara Kingsolver

“Sept 15 1930 at the independence festival of the school of cretins…"At the head of the table by the bowl of pomegranates, Senora Bartolome had put a note: Take only one, our Lord Jesus is watching!. A second note appeared at the foot of the table beside the sugared almonds: Take all you want…” quote by Barbara Kingsolver
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““Sept 15 1930 at the independence festival of the school of cretins…"At the head of the table by the bowl of pomegranates, Senora Bartolome had put a note: Take only one, our Lord Jesus is watching!. A second note appeared at the foot of the table beside the sugared almonds: Take all you want, Jesus is looking at the pomegranates.””

Barbara Kingsolver

About This Quote

Source Short story: “The Festival of Creations” (fictional)

Contrasting messages about restraint and indulgence illustrate moral ambiguity in religious observance.

In simple terms: Moral conflict over consumption.

Key Takeaway

Consider balance between restraint and generosity.

Themes

morality religion culture

Mood

thoughtful critical

Type

literary satirical

When to use this quote

  • holiday feasts
  • family gatherings
  • religious ceremonies

Key Concepts

ethical paradox ritual symbolism

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does restraint mean to you?
  • How do you reconcile opposing moral cues?
A Different Perspective

Message may be satirical, not literal.

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