The Quiet American Innocence Quotes

How we cite our quotes: (Part.Chapter.Section.Paragraph)

Quote #7

I know myself, and I know the depth of my selfishness. I cannot be at ease (and to be at ease is my chief wish) if someone else is in pain, visibly or audibly or tactually. Sometimes this is mistaken by the innocent for unselfishness, when all I am doing is sacrificing a small good – in this case postponement in attending to my hurt – for the sake of a far greater good, a peace of mind when I need think only of myself. (2.2.4.59)

Is this honesty or is Fowler too cynical about himself?

Quote #8

Unfortunately the innocent are always involved in any conflict. Always, everywhere, there is some voice crying from a tower. (2.3.1.45)

Here "innocent" refers to those who do not share blame for the cause or continuation of the conflict. Does Greene imply any relationship between these two senses of innocence?

Quote #9

'I wish sometimes you had a few bad motives, you might understand a little more about human beings.' (2.3.3.44)

Does one understand or appreciate wrongness better by doing wrong? Does the sinner know the nature of sin better than the saint?