Cry, the beloved country, for the unborn child that's the inheritor of our fear. Let him not love the earth too deeply. Let him not laugh too gladly when the water runs through his fingers, nor stand too silent when the setting sun makes red the veld with fire. Let him not be too moved when the birds of his land are singing. Nor give too much of his heart to a mountain or a valley. For fear will rob him if he gives too much.
In "Cry, the Beloved Country," Alan Paton reflects on the struggles and fears that shape a child's future in a troubled land. The quote expresses a lament for the unborn child who will inherit the anxiety and turmoil of its environment, urging that the child should not fully embrace the beauty of the earth or its simple joys. This concern arises from a desire to protect the child from the pain that comes with deep attachment and love for nature, as these connections may lead to heartbreak.
Paton's poignant language underscores the fragility of innocence in a world marred by fear. It suggests that the child should remain guarded, minimizing emotional investment in the beauty of the land and its offerings. The imagery of the setting sun and singing birds evokes a sense of longing for a deeper appreciation of life, but ultimately portrays a battle between the desire for connection and the need to shield oneself from inevitable sorrow. This tension captures the essence of the novel, emphasizing the impact of social and emotional turmoil on future generations.