“There is no question that I am the only thing standing between these animals and the business practices of August and Uncle Al, and what my father would do--what my father would want me to do--is look after them, and I am filled with that absolute and unwavering conviction. No matter what I did last night, I cannot leave these animals. I am their shepherd, their protector.”
Quote Analysis
In this quote from Sara Gruen's novel, the protagonist expresses her unwavering commitment to protecting the animals under her care. Despite whatever mistakes she may have made in the past, she feels a strong sense of responsibility and duty to ensure the well-being of these creatures. This quote highlights the theme of redemption and the protagonist's transformation from a troubled individual to a dedicated guardian of the animals.
Modern Relevance
In this quote from Sara Gruen's novel "Water for Elephants," the protagonist expresses a strong sense of duty and responsibility towards the animals in her care. This theme of compassion and protection resonates in today's society as we continue to advocate for animal rights and welfare. The idea of being a shepherd and protector for those who cannot speak for themselves is a timeless and important value that remains relevant in our modern world.
Sara Gruen Quote on Animal Protection
In this quote from Sara Gruen's novel, the protagonist reflects on their responsibility to protect and care for animals, despite personal struggles and temptations. The use of the term "shepherd" illustrates the deep sense of duty and guardianship the character feels towards the animals in their care.
Reflection Questions:
After reading this powerful quote from Sara Gruen's novel, take a moment to reflect on the following questions:
- How does the protagonist's sense of duty and responsibility to the animals reflect broader themes of compassion and empathy?
- In what ways does the protagonist's determination to protect the animals challenge societal norms and expectations?
- How does the protagonist's internal struggle between familial expectations and personal convictions resonate with your own experiences?
- What do you think the author is trying to convey about the power of individual agency and moral courage in the face of adversity?
- How does this quote inspire you to reflect on your own beliefs and values when it comes to standing up for what is right?
Similar quotes
“My father felt it was his duty to continue to treat animals long after he stopped getting paid. He couldn't stand by and watch a horse colic or a cow labor with a breech calf even though it meant personal ruin. The parallel is undeniable. There is no question I am the only thing standing between these animals and the business practices of August and Uncle Al, and what my father would do - what my father would want me to do - is look after them, and I am filled with that absolute and unwavering conviction. No matter what I did last night, I cannot leave these animals. I am their shepherd, their protector. And it's more than a duty. It's a covenant with my father.”
“The Girl Scout’s motto is also mine. I fill my life with worthwhile deeds such as — well, never mind what. My duty is —to be useful. I am a friend to male animals. I am cheerful. I am thrifty and I am absolutely filthy in thought, word, and deed.”
“I don't care anymore, don't you understand that? I am doing what I am doing because I must do it. And when everything ends my ultimate reward is that I end with it, because I cannot stand to be a part of a creation that did what it did to you.”
“I Want to ShoutLeave me alone!What's wrong with you?Don't you remember who I am? Who you are?This is not a father's love! I want to scream, Can't you see what you are doing to me? What you've done to me? What you've made of me? I want to cry out, I am your little girl. I am not your girlfriend. I am not your whore. I am not my fucking mother! But he is on top of me and my shout is silenced. He is inside of me and my scream stays there too. He is finished. And I don't cry out, but I do cry a bucket of silent tears. He slithers away and at last, I quietly sob”
“I have come to accept myself for what I am: human. I am not perfect. I am not immune to fate, but I am not automatically doomed for being alive. I feel temptations every second of every day and I am not controlled by them. I do what I want anyway, so who is to say I want anything else? When I want, I let these peculiarities run across me like dogs to their masters. When I do not, I keep them at bay with my will and my testimony. I do not cut myself off from what makes me feel; I just refuse to feel anything that cuts me off from what matters most. It is called will power. With a little practice, you can accomplish great things.”