Children Quote by Gregory Maguire
““What the hell are you doing up there?' So he slipped, of course, because he was startled, and because fate, having been so kind to him as to award him this ecstasy, retributively was going to kill him now. He lost his footing and grabbed for the chimney but missed. Head over thighs he rolled out like a child's toy, smashed into the poking branches of the damn pear tree, which probably saved his life, breaking his fall. He landed with a thud on a bed of lettuces, and the wind was knocked out of him, mortifyingly so, through all available orifices. Oh, brilliant,' said the voice. 'The trees are dropping their fruits early this year.””
About This Quote
A character’s reckless climb leads to a near-fatal fall, but a tree’s branches break his fall, illustrating how unexpected forces can both endanger and save, and how fate can be both cruel and merciful.
In simple terms: A fall is softened by a tree, showing fate’s mixed nature.
Key Takeaway
Recognize that danger can become unexpected protection.
Themes
fate
danger
unexpected rescue
Mood
tense
reflective
Type
narrative
philosophical
When to use this quote
- adventure sports
- mountain climbing
- disaster response
- personal risk taking
Key Concepts
risk assessment
human vulnerability
nature’s role
Questions to Reflect On
- What would you do differently in a risky situation?
- How do you interpret signs of fate?
A Different Perspective
Relying on luck ignores personal responsibility for safety.
