Quote by Edward Hoagland
Animals used to provide a lowlife way to kill and get away with it, as they do still, but, more intriguingly, for some people they are an aperture through which wounds drain. The scapegoat of olden times, driven off for the bystanders sins, has become a tender thing, a running injury. There, running away is me: hurt it and you are hurting me.
Summary
This quote highlights the shifting perception of animals in society. In the past, animals were seen as a means to kill without consequence. However, for some individuals, animals now serve as a cathartic outlet for emotional wounds. They have become a vulnerable entity, akin to a scapegoat, representing both physical and emotional injuries. Hurting an animal is equated to hurting the person who finds solace and healing through their connection with these creatures. Overall, the quote emphasizes the intertwined relationship between humans and animals, highlighting the importance of empathy and understanding towards all living beings.