Israel Quote by Thomas Keneally
““Oskar knew people would catch that trolley anyhow. Doors closed, no stops, machine guns on walls—it wouldn’t matter. Humans were incurable that way. People would try to get off it, someone’s loyal Polish maid with a parcel of sausage. And people would try to get on, some fast-moving athletic young man like Leopold Pfefferberg with a pocketful of diamonds or Occupation złoty or a message in code for the partisans. People responded to any slim chance, even if it was an outside one, its doors locked shut, moving fast between mute walls.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: The Daughters of the King, 1975, historical fiction
People cling to hope and act despite danger, using any chance to survive or resist, even when circumstances seem hopeless.
In simple terms: Hope drives risky actions in dire times.
Key Takeaway
Seek opportunities, however small, to act.
Themes
hope
resistance
danger
human nature
survival
chance
Mood
dramatic
tense
Type
historical
literary
When to use this quote
- wartime resistance
- personal risk
- ethical decision‑making
Key Concepts
war psychology
morality
social dynamics
Questions to Reflect On
- What motivates people to risk everything?
- When does hope become denial?
A Different Perspective
Risk can lead to tragic outcomes.
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