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Animal Quote by Ken Kesey

“A sound of cornered-animal fear and hate and surrender and defiance . . . like the last sound the treed and shot and falling animal makes as the dogs get him, when he finally doesn't care about anything but himself and his dying.” quote by Ken Kesey
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“A sound of cornered-animal fear and hate and surrender and defiance . . . like the last sound the treed and shot and falling animal makes as the dogs get him, when he finally doesn't care about anything but himself and his dying.”

Ken Kesey

About This Quote

Source Literary excerpt: Novel or short story

A desperate animal’s final sounds blend fear, hate, surrender, and defiance as it faces death.

In simple terms: The animal’s last cry is a mix of emotions.

Key Takeaway

Acknowledge complex reactions to mortality.

Themes

death fear defiance

Mood

somber reflective

Type

poetic philosophical

When to use this quote

  • wildlife observation
  • philosophical reflection
  • artistic description

Key Concepts

animal behavior survival instinct emotional complexity

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does the animal’s cry symbolize?
  • How do we confront our own mortality?
A Different Perspective

The metaphor may anthropomorphize the animal.

2.5 out of 5 (6 ratings)

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