So what is the way of raising a child? At a young age, said the judge, they should be put in a pit with wild dogs. They should be set to puzzle out from their proper clues the one of three doors that does not harbor wild lions. They should be made to run naked in the desert until …
The quote from Cormac McCarthy's "Blood Meridian" presents a stark and provocative view on child-rearing. It suggests that children should be exposed to extreme challenges and dangers, implying that this harsh upbringing would cultivate strength and resilience. The idea of confronting wild animals or navigating perilous environments metaphorically emphasizes the importance of survival instincts in a brutal world.
This unconventional perspective raises questions about the nature of upbringing and the balance between nurturing and survival training. While many might argue for a more compassionate approach to raising children, McCarthy's portrayal reflects a philosophical inquiry into how adversity shapes identity and character. In portraying such vivid imagery, the author invites readers to contemplate the extremes of human experience and the effects of environment on personal development.
