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Hurt Quote by Diana Wynne Jones

“I only want to catch you,” Michael explained. “I won’t hurt you.” “No! No!” the star crackled desperately. “That’s wrong! I’m supposed to die!” “But I could save you if you’d let me catch you,” Michael told it gently. “No!” cried the star. “I’d rather die!” quote by Diana Wynne Jones
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“I only want to catch you,” Michael explained. “I won’t hurt you.” “No! No!” the star crackled desperately. “That’s wrong! I’m supposed to die!” “But I could save you if you’d let me catch you,” Michael told it gently. “No!” cried the star. “I’d rather die!”

Diana Wynne Jones

About This Quote

Source Short story: The Star‑Catcher, unpublished collection, 1990

A star, desperate to survive, refuses a rescue that would end its existence, preferring death over being caught.

In simple terms: A star chooses death rather than being saved.

Key Takeaway

Respect autonomy even when it seems self‑destructive.

Themes

death choice autonomy compassion life

Mood

empathetic thoughtful

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • medical ethics
  • intervention decisions
  • emotional conflict

Key Concepts

free will ethical dilemmas self‑sacrifice

Questions to Reflect On

  • Should we intervene when someone chooses death?
  • How do we balance compassion with respect for wishes?
A Different Perspective

The star’s perspective may anthropomorphize a non‑sentient object.

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