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Animals Quote by James Herriot

“... a bullock, backing in alarm from the halter, crashed its craggy behind into my midriff. The wind shot out of me in a sharp hiccup, then the animal decided to turn round in the narrow passage, squashing me like a fly against the railings. I was pop-eyed as it scrambled round; I wondered whether…” quote by James Herriot
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““... a bullock, backing in alarm from the halter, crashed its craggy behind into my midriff. The wind shot out of me in a sharp hiccup, then the animal decided to turn round in the narrow passage, squashing me like a fly against the railings. I was pop-eyed as it scrambled round; I wondered whether the creaking was coming from my ribs or the wood behind me.””

James Herriot

About This Quote

Source Book: All Creatures Great and Small by James Herriot, 1972

A sudden, chaotic encounter can leave you feeling powerless and startled.

In simple terms: Unexpected events can be shocking and disorienting.

Key Takeaway

Stay calm and assess before reacting.

Themes

vulnerability humor survival

Mood

reflective lighthearted

Type

narrative humorous

When to use this quote

  • working with animals
  • emergency situations
  • public speaking
  • tight spaces

Key Concepts

human‑animal interaction physical comedy stress response

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you react when caught off‑guard?
  • What can you learn from sudden disruptions?
A Different Perspective

Humor can mask deeper fear or trauma.

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