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Every man Quote by Richard Peck

“And don’t look for anything out of the law around here,” she said. “The Cowgills and the Leapers is kin to the sheriff. No justice in these parts. It’s every man for hisself.” “But as the saying goes, if you can’t get justice,” Mrs. Dowdel remarked, “get even.” quote by Richard Peck
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““And don’t look for anything out of the law around here,” she said. “The Cowgills and the Leapers is kin to the sheriff. No justice in these parts. It’s every man for hisself.” “But as the saying goes, if you can’t get justice,” Mrs. Dowdel remarked, “get even.””

Richard Peck

About This Quote

Source Novel: The Best of Times, 1998

Justice is scarce; people resort to personal revenge when law fails.

In simple terms: Law fails, revenge follows.

Key Takeaway

Consider systemic change over personal vengeance.

Themes

justice revenge lawlessness

Mood

somber critical

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • neighborhood disputes
  • court failures
  • family feuds

Key Concepts

social contract ethical dilemmas

Questions to Reflect On

  • What alternatives exist to personal revenge?
  • How can communities restore trust in law?
A Different Perspective

Vigilantism can perpetuate cycles of violence.

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