I wonder if fears ever really go away, or if they just lose their power over us.
VERONICA ROTHI wonder if fears ever really go away, or if they just lose their power over us.
VERONICA ROTHPride is what killed Al, and it is the flaw in every Dauntless heart. It is in mine.
VERONICA ROTHThere are so many ways to be brave in this world.
VERONICA ROTHShh,” I say. “Arms around me.” Obediently, he slips both arms around my waist. I smile at the wall. I am not enjoying this. I am not, not even a little bit, no.
VERONICA ROTHHe is stronger than anyone I know, and warmer than anyone else realizes; he is a secret that I have kept, and will keep for the rest of my life.
VERONICA ROTHI feel the monster of grief again, writhing in the empty space where my heart and stomach used to be.
VERONICA ROTHIt reminds me that no embrace will ever feel the same again, because no one will ever be like her again, because she’s gone. She’s gone, and crying feels so useless, so stupid, but it’s all I can do.
VERONICA ROTH“Oh, you know,” I say. “Sun shining. Birds chirping.” She raises an eyebrow at me, as if reminding me that we are in an underground tunnel.
VERONICA ROTHDo remember, though, that sometimes the people you oppress become mightier than you would like.
VERONICA ROTHThere is a difference between admitting and confessing. Admitting involves softening, making excuses for things that cannot be excused; confessing just names the crimes at its full severity.
VERONICA ROTHDauntless: being brave in the midst of fear.
VERONICA ROTHGrief is not as heavy as guilt, but it takes more away from you.
VERONICA ROTHMom used to say that politeness is deception in pretty packaging
VERONICA ROTHHuman reason can excuse any evil; that is why it’s so important that we don’t rely on it.
VERONICA ROTHWe are not people who touch each other carelessly; every point of contact between us feels important, a rush of energy and relief.
VERONICA ROTHBeing honest doesn’t mean you say whatever you want, wherever you want. It means that what you choose to say is true.
VERONICA ROTH