And what was there evil in their desires, in their hunger? That men should walk upright in the land where they were born, and be free to use the fruits of the earth, what was there evil in it? Yet men were afraid, with a fear that was deep, deep in the heart, a fear so deep that they hid their kindness, or brought it out with fierceness and anger, and hid it behind fierce and frowning eyes. They were afraid because they were so few. And such fear could not be cast out, but by love.
In the excerpt from "Cry, The Beloved Country" by Alan Paton, the author reflects on the intrinsic desires for basic human rights: the ability for individuals to live freely and prosper within their homelands. The longing for freedom and the right to benefit from nature's resources are depicted as natural and just pursuits, devoid of malice. However, the reality is marred by deep-seated fear, as people conceal their compassion and often express it through anger.
This fear stems from their minority status, creating a sense of vulnerability that fosters hostility rather than understanding. The passage suggests that such fear can only be alleviated through love, emphasizing the need for compassion and connection among individuals. Only by embracing love can society hope to overcome the barriers that lead to animosity and misunderstanding.
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