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Children Quote by Patrick Ness

“Everyone here is someone’s daughter,” she says quietly. “Every soldier out there is someone’s son. The only crime, the only crime is to take a life. There is nothing else.” “And that’s why you don’t fight,” I say. She turns to me sharply. “To live is to fight,” she snaps. “To preserve life is to…” quote by Patrick Ness
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““Everyone here is someone’s daughter,” she says quietly. “Every soldier out there is someone’s son. The only crime, the only crime is to take a life. There is nothing else.” “And that’s why you don’t fight,” I say. She turns to me sharply. “To live is to fight,” she snaps. “To preserve life is to fight everything that man stands for.””

Patrick Ness

About This Quote

Source Novel: "A Monster Calls", Patrick Ness, 2011

Every soldier is a child’s parent; taking life is the ultimate crime.

In simple terms: Life is sacred; killing is a grave sin.

Key Takeaway

Value and protect human life above conflict.

Themes

life war morality

Mood

somber reflective

Type

ethical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • military ethics
  • peace activism
  • conflict resolution

Key Concepts

ethical dilemma human value

Questions to Reflect On

  • What justifies taking a life?
  • How can we honor both life and duty?
A Different Perspective

War may be seen as necessary by some.

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