Movies
You're like the thief who isn't the least bit sorry he stole, but is terribly, terribly sorry he's going to jail.
— Rhett Butler • Gone with the Wind
Behind the line May contain spoilers.
Our reading
An editorial interpretation.
This comparison paints someone as unrepentant about their actual wrongdoing while being deeply upset only about facing consequences for it. The distinction is pointed and a little cruel, suggesting the person's regret is entirely selfish, focused on punishment rather than any genuine acknowledgment of harm done.
Context reviewed