The quote from Margaret Atwood’s "The Blind Assassin" reflects on societal perceptions of beauty and age, suggesting that a young, attractive girl’s sadness evokes a strong desire for empathy and support. This highlights how society often places value on youth and beauty, leading to a protective instinct in response to their pain. The contrast with an older woman, described as a "sad old crone," suggests that such figures may not elicit the same compassionate response, perhaps due to ingrained biases regarding aging and desirability.

This observation raises important questions about the ways in which society engages with women at different stages of life. The younger girl, regardless of her struggles, is seen as deserving of consolation because of her beauty, while the older woman may be dismissed or overlooked. Atwood’s insight serves as a commentary on how cultural narratives surrounding beauty can shape emotional responses, underscoring the complexities of gender, age, and societal expectations.