Ask questions Quote by John Dos Passos
““When they were all up playing in the nursery George caught something again and had monia on account of getting cold on his chest and Yourfather was very solemn and said not to grieve if God called little brother away. But God brought little George back to them only he was delicate after that and had to wear glasses, and when Dearmother let Eveline help bathe him because Miss Mathilda was having the measles too Eveline noticed he had something funny there where she didn't have anything. She asked Dearmother if it was a mump, but Dearmother scolded her and said she was a vulgar little girl to have looked. "Hush, child, don't ask questions. Evaline got red all over and cried and Adelaide and Margaret wouldn't speak to her for days on account of her being a vulgar little girl.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: The 400-Year-Old Man, John Dos Passos, 1930
A child's illness and family reactions reveal social expectations and the harshness of judgment in a tight‑knit community.
In simple terms: A sick child faces judgment from family and society.
Key Takeaway
Be compassionate, avoid harsh judgments.
Themes
family
judgment
illness
social norms
childhood
Mood
sad
reflective
tense
Type
narrative
social commentary
emotional.
When to use this quote
- parenting
- health crises
- school bullying
- community support
Key Concepts
social conformity
family dynamics
stigma
Questions to Reflect On
- How does judgment affect a child's healing?
- What can families do to support vulnerable members?
A Different Perspective
Compassion may be limited by cultural expectations and fear of contagion.
