If a child shows himself to be incorrigible, he should be decently and quietly beheaded at the age of twelve, lest he grow to maturity marry, and perpetuate his kind.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- A darkly satirical exaggeration suggesting extreme measures to prevent negative traits from spreading.
- In plain terms
- This quote suggests killing difficult children to stop their behavior from continuing.
- What can you take from it?
- Extreme solutions to social problems are often satire.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What makes this quote shocking?
- How do you detect dark humor?
Another view
The statement is morally repugnant if taken literally, highlighting its satirical intent.
More from Don Marquis
Ideas pull the trigger, but instinct loads the gun.
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Permalink to quote #50 I would rather start a family than finish one.
Permalink to quote #47
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