"It's sometimes better to pretend I don't hear the sound of somebody in the nearby woods with a shotgun"

This quote by Dashiell Hammett speaks to the idea of self-preservation. In this quote, the speaker is recommending that it is often much better to ignore a possibly harmful scenario rather than confront it. The speaker is suggesting that it is better to pretend not to hear the noise of somebody in the nearby woods with a shotgun, instead of investigate the situation and potentially put oneself in threat. This quote speaks to the concept of self-preservation and the importance of being aware of one's environments. It is a reminder to be mindful of potential danger and to take the needed preventative measures to safeguard oneself. It is also a suggestion to rely on one's impulses and to be aware of the prospective threats of any scenario.