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Never love a wild thing, Mr. Bell,’ Holly advised him. ‘That was Doc’s mistake. He was always lugging home wild things. A hawk with a hurt wing. One time it was a full-grown bobcat with a broken leg. But you can’t give your heart to a wild thing; the more you do, the stronger they get. Until they’re strong enough to run into the woods. Or fly into a tree. Then a taller tree. Then the sky. That’s how you’ll end up Mr. Bell. If you let yourself love a wild thing. You’ll end up looking at the sky.
Truman Capote
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Interpretation

What this quote means

The quote warns against loving someone or something that is wild and free, as they may ultimately leave you heartbroken.

In this quote, Holly advises Mr. Bell about the dangers of loving 'wild things'—creatures or people who are inherently free and untamed. She reflects on the past mistakes of Doc, who nurtured and cared for wild animals, only to see them eventually leave him once they regained their strength. Holly emphasizes that the more you invest your love in a wild thing, the more they will grow and eventually become independent, leaving you behind with the pain of their absence. This illustrates the bittersweet nature of love for those who are wild at heart.

Themes

LoveWildFreedomHeartbreakLoss

In practice

Example use cases

This quote can be referenced in discussions about the nature of love and freedom in relationships.

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