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The One and Only Ivan Philosophical Viewpoint: Animal Rights Quotes

How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Line)

Quote #4

When she went lame and lagged behind the other elephants, the circus sold her to Mack. (stella's trunk.136)

A limping elephant: not good enough for the circus, but good enough for Mack. What was Mack thinking when he purchased an injured elephant? What does that show about his character?

Quote #5

They think I'm too old to cause trouble. Old age is a powerful disguise. (stella's trunk.143)

Wisdom can come with age, and in Stella's case, she has wisdom in spades—plus, she's not afraid to spark a mini-revolution on her deathbed.

Quote #6

It is the most beautiful mad I have ever heard. (a new beginning.758)

The anger Ivan hears in Ruby is beautiful because it is resistance to cruelty. Ruby hasn't resigned herself to a life under Mack's control yet, and this sense of herself as free and as deserving better is a beautiful thing indeed.