Serial killer Quote by Seanan McGuire
““I told them you almost certainly were not a serial killer, and that they were being horribly sexist by assuming that of the two of us, only you were capable of committing murder. That may have been a tactical error—it got me rather a lot more questioning that I hadn’t exactly been planning on.” “Well, yes. It’s usually unwise to tell the police you could be a serial killer if you really, really wanted to.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: The Murder of the Century, Seanan McGuire, 2022
A character confesses that down claiming innocence may have been a tactical mistake, revealing how self‑presentation can backfire when confronting stereotypes and suspicion.
In simple terms: Admitting innocence can be risky when stereotypes are strong.
Key Takeaway
Be mindful of how you frame yourself in hostile situations.
Themes
identity
stereotypes
communication
risk
self‑presentation
Mood
tense
reflective
cautious
Type
dialogue
dramatic
conversational
When to use this quote
- courtroom interrogation
- media interview
- personal confession
- dangerous accusation
Key Concepts
psychology
social dynamics
gender bias
strategic disclosure
Questions to Reflect On
- How does gender bias affect perceptions of danger?
- When is honesty a strategic disadvantage?
A Different Perspective
The tactic may provoke deeper suspicion rather than clearing doubt.
