The quote from Tad Williams’ "Sleeping Late On Judgement Day" captures the complex nature of relationships. It compares the behavior of a cat to human interactions, suggesting that affection can sometimes mask deeper feelings of resentment or defensiveness. Just like a cat might respond with pleasure when being petted but also maintain a readiness to defend itself, people often operate in similar ways, where kindness and aggression coexist.

This duality reflects the idea that beneath a friendly exterior, there may be underlying tensions or feelings of distrust. It highlights the importance of understanding the nuances in behavior and the need to navigate relationships with care. The quote serves as a reminder that outward appearances can be misleading, and it encourages deeper introspection into how we relate to others.