In Hunter S. Thompson's "Hell's Angels: A Strange and Terrible Saga," the author explores the thin line between feelings of betrayal and the instinct for retaliation. He suggests that when individuals feel wronged, it often leads to extreme responses, even to the point of seeking revenge that defies societal norms. This connection highlights how emotions can drive one to act out violently against the perceived injustice.

The quote illustrates the psychological shift from feeling slighted to embracing a mindset that justifies total retaliation. It sheds light on the potential consequences of outrage, revealing how such emotions can spark a cycle of vengeance that disrupts public decency and order. Thompson’s observation prompts readers to contemplate the impact of hurt feelings on moral boundaries and societal behavior.