In Philip Pullman's "I Was a Rat!", the protagonist reflects on the nature of animals compared to humans. The quote suggests that while people may harbor wickedness and cruelty, animals, such as rats, act primarily based on instinct and their natural behaviors. This perspective challenges the common disdain for rats, positioning them as creatures that are not inherently evil but rather misunderstood in their actions.

Pullman uses this sentiment to provoke thought about morality and the true nature of good and evil. The assertion that rats are merely "ratty" highlights how humans often project their own negative traits onto animals. In doing so, the narrative explores themes of judgment, empathy, and the complexity of behavior across species.