To fear is one thing. To let fear grab you by the tail and swing you around is another

To fear is one thing. To let fear grab you by the tail and swing you around is another

Katherine Paterson, a renowned author known for her powerful and thought-provoking works, often explores themes of fear and courage in her writing. One of her most famous quotes, “To fear is one thing. To let fear grab you by the tail and swing you around is another,” encapsulates the idea that while it is natural to feel fear, allowing it to control and consume you can be detrimental.

In many of Paterson’s novels, her characters face various challenges and obstacles that evoke fear within them. Whether it be the fear of the unknown, the fear of failure, or the fear of rejection, her characters must confront their fears in order to grow and overcome their struggles. This theme is particularly prevalent in her novel “Bridge to Terabithia,” where the main characters, Jess and Leslie, must navigate the complexities of childhood and friendship while also facing their own fears and insecurities.

Throughout the novel, Jess and Leslie both experience moments of fear and doubt, but it is their ability to confront and overcome these fears that ultimately leads to their personal growth and development. For Jess, fear manifests in his self-doubt and insecurity, particularly in his artistic abilities and his relationships with others. Leslie, on the other hand, faces the fear of being different and not fitting in with her peers. Despite these challenges, both characters learn to confront their fears head-on and find the courage to be true to themselves.

Paterson’s quote speaks to the idea that fear is a natural and inevitable part of the human experience. It is a primal instinct that can serve as a warning signal, alerting us to potential dangers and threats. However, when fear becomes overwhelming and all-consuming, it can paralyze us and prevent us from living fully and authentically. This is where the distinction lies between feeling fear and letting fear control us.