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White people Quote by Harper Lee

“He jerked his head at Dill: 'Things haven't caught up with that one's instinct yet. Let him get a little older and he won't get sick and cry. Maybe things'll strike him as being- not quite right, say, but he won't cry, not when he gets a few years on him.' 'Cry about what, Mr. Raymond?' Dill's…” quote by Harper Lee
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““He jerked his head at Dill: 'Things haven't caught up with that one's instinct yet. Let him get a little older and he won't get sick and cry. Maybe things'll strike him as being- not quite right, say, but he won't cry, not when he gets a few years on him.' 'Cry about what, Mr. Raymond?' Dill's maleness was beginning to assert itself. 'Cry about the simple hell people give each other- without even thinking. Cry about the hell white people give colored folks, without even stopping to think that they're people too. A reflection on the innocence and vulnerability of children””

Harper Lee

About This Quote

Source Novel: To Kill a Mockingbird, 1960

Children learn empathy by confronting societal injustices; their innocence reveals harsh realities of racism and cruelty.

In simple terms: Kids see unfairness and feel the pain of others.

Key Takeaway

Teach empathy by exposing children to honest truths.

Themes

racism empathy innocence social justice

Mood

thoughtful empathetic

Type

narrative reflective

When to use this quote

  • education
  • parenting
  • community programs
  • literature discussions

Key Concepts

childhood development racial inequality emotional growth

Questions to Reflect On

  • What can adults do to guide children through painful truths?
  • How does innocence help reveal systemic problems?
A Different Perspective

Children may be emotionally harmed if exposed without support.

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