"There is cruelty in the world, Eliza, you can see that, can't you? It surrounds us." This highlights the pervasive presence of cruelty in everyday life, emphasizing how it is an unavoidable aspect of human existence. The quote suggests that cruelty is like an invisible force that we breathe in constantly, shaping our experiences and interactions.

"We spend our life trying to escape it." The quote underscores the human desire to avoid or escape from this cruelty, perhaps implying that our efforts to find safety or happiness are often in response to the harsh realities around us. Overall, it reflects on the bittersweet nature of life, where innocence may be challenged by the darker aspects of human behavior.