How easy is murder when one calls it by a different name? How much easier is it for the conscience to condone "reaping" than "killing"-and when one knows that death isn't the end, does it stop the killing hand for fear of retribution, or does it simply make it easier to kill, because, if life continues, how can murder be murder at all?
Neal ShustermanWhat he's really saying is: Please be a human being. With a life so full of rules and regiments, it's so easy to forget that's what they are. She knowsโshe seesโhow often compassion takes a back seat to expediency.
Neal ShustermanHey," says Hayden, "I'm Switzerland; neutral as can be, and also with great chocolate." "Get lost," Roland tells him. "Already am." And Hayden strolls away.
Neal Shusterman