In "Dance with the Devil" by Sherrilyn Kenyon, the quote "There were only so many kicks a dog could take before it turned vicious" reflects a pivotal theme of endurance and transformation in response to trauma. It suggests that there is a limit to how much suffering or betrayal an individual can withstand before they change fundamentally in their nature, perhaps becoming aggressive or defensive as a response to their circumstances.
This idea serves as a powerful metaphor for resilience and the consequences of repeated hardship. Just as a dog may become vicious after enduring enough pain, people can also reach a breaking point, leading to drastic changes in behavior and attitude. The emotional weight behind this quote illustrates the importance of understanding the impacts of trauma and the potential for fierce reactions when pushed too far.