Felt Sorry Quote by Betty Smith
““She did not hate Miss Garnder anymore. She didn’t like her, but she felt sorry for her. Miss Garnder had nothing in all the world excepting a sureness about how right she was.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: A Tree Grows in Brooklyn by Betty Smith, 1943
She feels pity rather than hatred, recognizing the certainty of the other’s self‑righteousness.
In simple terms: She feels sorry, not hate, because of the other’s certainty.
Key Takeaway
Recognize empathy even when you dislike someone.
Themes
empathy
conflict
self‑righteousness
Mood
reflective
melancholy
Type
narrative
character study
When to use this quote
- family relationships
- workplace tension
- friendship disagreements
Key Concepts
human nature
psychology
social dynamics
Questions to Reflect On
- How does certainty affect our ability to empathize?
- Can pity lead to constructive change?
A Different Perspective
Pity may not change the other’s attitude.
