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Jack, I doubt you've ever taken a stupid breath. Don't start now.
— Dudley • L.A. Confidential
Behind the line May contain spoilers.
Our reading
An editorial interpretation.
Dudley praises Jack's intelligence while warning him against a foolish choice. Saying Jack has never taken a stupid breath exaggerates how sharp he is. The compliment gives the warning extra force, though the excerpt leaves its stakes unstated.
Context reviewed