Wants Badly Quote by Shirley Jackson
““Since the gate was so clearly locked—locked and double-locked and chained and barred; who, she wondered, wants so badly to get in?—she made no attempt to get out of her car, but pressed the horn, and the trees and the gate shuddered and withdrew slightly from the sound. After a minute she blew the horn again and then saw a man coming toward her from inside the gate; he was as dark and unwelcoming as the padlock, and before he moved toward the gate he peered through the bars at her, scowling. “What you want?” His voice was sharp, mean.””
About This Quote
Source Short story: “The Lottery” excerpt, 1948
A woman confronts an impenetrable barrier, using a horn to provoke a hostile response, highlighting fear of the unknown and aggression when challenged.
In simple terms: A locked gate triggers a hostile reaction when disturbed.
Key Takeaway
Don’t assume aggression will stop your pursuit.
Themes
fear
confrontation
unknown
authority
communication
Mood
tense
anxious
defensive
Type
narrative
dramatic
cautionary
When to use this quote
- driving
- urban exploration
- conflict resolution
- personal safety
- assertiveness
Key Concepts
psychology
social dynamics
boundary testing
Questions to Reflect On
- What assumptions do you make about barriers?
- How might you de‑escalate a hostile encounter?
A Different Perspective
Aggression may be a defensive reflex, not a rational answer.
