“An English traveller relates how he lived upon intimate terms with a tiger; he had reared it and used to play with it, but always kept a loaded pistol on the table.”
Explore This Quote Further
Analysis
In this quote by Stendhal, the image of a man living on "intimate terms with a tiger" is both startling and captivating. The contrast between the wild, untamed nature of the tiger and the domesticated relationship with the man creates a sense of tension and danger. The fact that the man always kept a loaded pistol on the table serves as a reminder of the inherent threat lurking beneath the surface of their seemingly close bond. This juxtaposition of intimacy and potential violence explores the complex and paradoxical nature of human-animal relationships.
Relevance in the Modern World
In modern times, the quote from Stendhal about living intimately with a tiger while keeping a loaded pistol on the table can serve as a metaphor for the need to be cautious and prepared even in seemingly safe or familiar situations. This can apply to various aspects of our lives such as relationships, business dealings, or even personal challenges. The idea of maintaining a balance between trust and readiness for unexpected dangers is a timeless lesson that remains relevant in today's world.
Intimate Relationship with a Tiger
"An English traveller relates how he lived upon intimate terms with a tiger; he had reared it and used to play with it, but always kept a loaded pistol on the table." - Stendhal
Reflection Questions:
The quote by Stendhal about an English traveller living on intimate terms with a tiger raises questions about human-animal relationships, trust, and danger. Consider the following reflection questions: 1. What are the ethical implications of raising and living with a wild animal, such as a tiger? 2. How does the presence of a loaded pistol on the table indicate the underlying danger in the situation? 3. What factors might have influenced the traveller's decision to keep a tiger as a pet despite the potential risks involved? 4. In what ways does this anecdote challenge our perceptions of human interactions with potentially dangerous animals?
Similar quotes
“Mathilde made an effort to use the more intimate form; she was evidently more attentive to this unusual way of speaking than to what she was saying. This use of the singular form, stripped of the tone of affection, ceased, after a moment, to afford Julien any pleasure, he was astonished at the absence of happiness; finally, in order to feel it, he had recourse to his reason. He saw himself highly esteemed by this girl who was so proud, and never bestowed unrestricted praise; by this line of reasoning he arrived at a gratification of his self-esteem.”
“Love born in the brain is more spirited, doubtless, than true love, but it has only flashes of enthusiasm; it knows itself too well, it criticizes itself incessantly; so far from banishing thought, it is itself reared only upon a structure of thought.”
“The footman burst in, announcing, 'Monsieur le Duc de ---.''Hold your tongue, you fool,' said the Duke as he entered the room. He said this so well, and with such majesty than Julien could not help thinking that knowing how to lose his temper with a footman was the whole extent of this great personage's knowledge.”
“Mathilde returned and strolled past the drawing-room windows; she saw him busily engaged in describing to Madame de Fervaques the old ruined castles that crown the steep banks of the Rhine and give them so distinctive a character. He was beginning to acquit himself none too badly in the use of the sentimental and picturesque language which is called wit in certain drawing-rooms.”
“Am I capable of deceiving my friend?” Julien asked himself peevishly. This being, for whom hypocrisy and an absence of all sympathy were the usual methods of protecting himself, could not bear, this time, the thought of the slightest trickiness in dealing with a man for whom he had friendly feelings.”
“God's only excuse is that he does not exist”