“I had hated these ponies for the part they played in my father's death but now I realized the notion was fanciful, that it was wrong to charge blame to these pretty beasts who knew neither good nor evil but only innocence. I say that of these ponies. I have known some horses and a good many more pigs who I believe harbored evil intent in their hearts. I will go further and say all cats are wicked, though often useful. Who has not seen Satan in their sly faces? Some preachers will say, well, that is superstitious "claptrap." My answer is this: Preacher, go to your Bible and read Luke 8: 26-33”
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Quote Analysis
In this quote from Charles Portis, the narrator reflects on his initial feelings of hatred towards ponies for their involvement in his father's death. However, he eventually comes to the realization that this hatred was unfounded, as ponies are simply innocent creatures without the capacity for good or evil. The narrator then goes on to express his belief that some horses and pigs may possess malicious intent, while all cats are inherently wicked. He challenges preachers who dismiss these beliefs as superstitious claptrap, referencing a biblical passage for support. This quote illustrates the narrator's complex beliefs about the nature of animals and serves as a commentary on human perception and superstition.
Modern Relevance:
In this passage from Charles Portis, the narrator reflects on his initial hatred towards ponies for their role in his father's death, only to later realize the innocence of the animals and the folly of blaming them for human actions. The statement about the wickedness of cats and the potential evil intent of horses and pigs may seem whimsical, but it prompts us to consider the complexity of morality and how our perceptions can be influenced by superstition and fear. The reference to Luke 8:26-33 challenges us to look beyond superficial judgments and explore deeper truths.
Example of Usage
"I had hated these ponies for the part they played in my father's death but now I realized the notion was fanciful, that it was wrong to charge blame to these pretty beasts who knew neither good nor evil but only innocence. I say that of these ponies. I have known some horses and a good many more pigs who I believe harbored evil intent in their hearts. I will go further and say all cats are wicked, though often useful. Who has not seen Satan in their sly faces? Some preachers will say, well, that is superstitious "claptrap." My answer is this: Preacher, go to your Bible and read Luke 8: 26-33” - Charles Portis".
Reflection Questions:
After reading this passage from Charles Portis, take a moment to reflect on the following questions:
- How does the narrator's perspective on animals shift throughout the passage?
- What do you think the narrator means when he says he had "hated these ponies for the part they played in my father's death"?
- Do you agree with the narrator's belief that animals can harbor evil intent? Why or why not?
- How does the mention of the Bible verse in Luke 8:26-33 tie into the narrator's thoughts on animals being perceived as good or evil?
- How does this passage make you reconsider your own beliefs about animals and their innocence or wickedness?
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