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Guilt Quote by Lloyd Jones

“Under these circumstances, silence among such a large group of people is an uncomfortable thing to experience. Guilt spreads around even to those who have nothing to feel guilty about. Many held their breath. Or, as I heard later, many did what me and my mum did and closed their eyes. We closed…” quote by Lloyd Jones
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““Under these circumstances, silence among such a large group of people is an uncomfortable thing to experience. Guilt spreads around even to those who have nothing to feel guilty about. Many held their breath. Or, as I heard later, many did what me and my mum did and closed their eyes. We closed our eyes in a bid to remove ourselves.””

Lloyd Jones

About This Quote

Source Book: The Book of Unknown Americans by Cristina Henríquez, 2014

Silence in a crowd can feel oppressive, spreading guilt even among those not directly involved, leading people to shut out the discomfort.

In simple terms: Group silence feels oppressive and spreads guilt.

Key Takeaway

Acknowledge discomfort instead of shutting out.

Themes

guilt silence group dynamics discomfort psychology

Mood

uneasy reflective somber

Type

observational psychological social.

When to use this quote

  • public gatherings
  • protest events
  • family trauma
  • media coverage

Key Concepts

social pressure emotional avoidance collective responsibility

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does silence affect personal responsibility?
  • When is it healthy to withdraw?
A Different Perspective

Silence may also be a protective coping mechanism, not just guilt.

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