Chris Cleave
The Quote in Other Words
I have a fondness for people and writing about them because they don’t always react with hostility and fury, which is why I find them intriguing. If everyone responded in that manner, there would be no narrative to share. Who would be interested in hearing about someone who was mistreated and turned into a monster? I’m drawn to the anomalies.
Explanation of the Quote
This quote highlights the importance of exploring the complexities of human nature. The writer expresses their love for people and writing about them because they are interested in the exceptions, those who do not respond with hate and anger even when they have been brutalized. This suggests that the writer is drawn to stories of resilience, compassion, and hope.
The quote also implies that stories of brutality and violence are not as compelling as those of people who rise above their circumstances. It challenges the notion that trauma and suffering inevitably lead to more of the same. Instead, it suggests that there is something inherently inspiring about those who choose to respond to adversity with kindness and empathy.
Overall, this quote encourages us to look beyond the surface level of human behavior and seek out the stories that reveal the best of what we are capable of. It reminds us that even in the darkest of times, there is always the potential for light and goodness to shine through.