How we cite our quotes: (Line)
Quote #1
And, under the trees, I saw Brown Bar-ba-loots
frisking about in their Bar-ba-loot suits
as they played in the shade and ate Trufulla Fruits. (64-66)
What kid can resist the Bar-ba-loots? They are the cutest of the cute—there are illustrations to prove it. Appreciating them (and wanting to squeeze and pet them) prepares us to have compassion for them when things go south.
Quote #2
So I quickly invented my Super-Axe-Hacker
which wacked off four Truffula Trees at one smacker. (144-45)
Ouch! The violent imagery here helps boost compassion for the Truffula Trees. And if you think about it, the trees seem to have the least power of anyone in the story. The Bar-ba-loots, Humming Fish, and Swommee Swans can at least get out of town—the trees are stuck.
Quote #3
I, the Once-ler, felt sad
as I watched them all go.
BUT…
business is business!
And business must grow
regardless of crummies in tummies, you know. (165-70)
How can the Once-ler feel compassion but not act on it? We'll let you explain that one.