Quote by Philip Pullman
It was all very well, the alethiometer telling her to be truthful, but she knew what would happen if she told the whole truth. She had to tread carefully and just avoid direct lies.
Summary
The quote is about the power of the alethiometer, a device that tells the truth, and the dilemma it poses for the character. Although she is advised to be completely truthful, she understands that disclosing certain information could lead to undesirable consequences. Thus, she tries to navigate her way by being cautious with her words, aiming to avoid outright lies while still withholding certain truths. The quote reflects the character's awareness of the delicate balance between being honest and strategically concealing information to protect herself.