People with bad consciences always fear the judgment of children

People with bad consciences always fear the judgment of children

Mary McCarthy was a renowned American writer and critic known for her sharp wit and keen observations of human behavior. In her works, she often delved into the complexities of human relationships and the inner workings of the human mind. One of the recurring themes in McCarthy's writing is the idea that people with bad consciences always fear the judgment of children.

This concept speaks to the idea that children are often more perceptive and intuitive than adults give them credit for. They have a keen sense of right and wrong, and can easily pick up on the subtle cues and behaviors of those around them. When someone has a guilty conscience, they may project their own feelings of shame and fear onto children, fearing that they will be able to see through their facade and judge them for their actions.

McCarthy's exploration of this theme highlights the idea that children have a unique ability to see through the masks that adults wear and to discern the true nature of a person. This can be a source of anxiety for those who are hiding secrets or carrying guilt, as they fear that their true selves will be exposed to the innocent eyes of children.