Ari Quote by Maria V. Snyder
““A little present from my run-in with a sword. Or should I say from when the sword had a run-in with me?” His eyes lit up. “Want to see the scar? It’s cool.” He started pulling his shirt out of his pants. “Janco,” Ari warned. “We’re not supposed to be fraternizing with the Sitians.” “But she’s not Sitian. Right, Yelena? You haven’t gone south on us, have you?” Janco’s voice held mock horror. “Because if you have I can’t give you your present.” I took my switchblade out, showing the inscription to Janco. “What about ‘Sieges weathered, fight together, friends forever’? Does that change if I become an official southerner?” Janco rubbed the hair on his chin, considering. “No,” Ari said. “You could change into a goat and it would still apply.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: The Lost City of Z by Maria V. Snyder, 2015
A character offers a scar as a gift, humorously noting the absurdity of changing identity while retaining obligations.
In simple terms: A scar is a gift, and identity changes don’t erase promises.
Key Takeaway
Recognize that promises persist despite superficial changes.
Themes
friendship
identity
loyalty
humor
gift-giving
Mood
lighthearted
reflective
Type
dialogue
narrative
When to use this quote
- team missions
- conflict resolution
- gift exchanges
- roleplaying games
Key Concepts
social contract
personal identity
symbolic gestures
Questions to Reflect On
- What obligations remain when identities shift?
- How do symbols like scars affect trust?
A Different Perspective
The humor may downplay seriousness of the underlying conflict.
