"I couldn't kill a chicken, I couldn't kill a cow - I was a vegetarian too at that time - so I thought, well what is there that I could kill? I couldn't kill this and I couldn't kill that"

In this quote, Ellen Burstyn reviews her personal position and emotional personality towards killing animals, emphasizing her vegetarian beliefs at that point in her life. She uses chicken and cow as symbolic recommendations for creatures she discovers herself not able to damage, which highlights her caring nature and ethical considerations concerning the lives of animals. Being not able to kill these animals highlights a deep-seated regard and compassion for living beings, lining up with typical vegetarian principles of preventing damage to animals.

Burstyn's repetition of "I could not eliminate this and I could not kill that" recommends an inner dialogue laden with consideration and possibly a search for a sense of moral clearness or resolution. This rhetorical device also serves to highlight her dedication to non-violence and peace, extending her personal approach beyond simple dietary options to encompass a broader ethical worldview.

The quote points to a time of self-reflection and exploration of individual worths, where Burstyn faces the concern of what she might morally eliminate, if at all. It recommends a philosophical questions into the nature of life and death, and her role within this existential structure. Her inability or aversion to kill highlights a profound commitment to life and a rejection of unneeded violence, a belief often echoed by people who choose a vegetarian lifestyle.

Additionally, this introspection might show broader social discussions around principles, sustainability, and consumption. Burstyn's internal conflict and resolution mirror the journey of numerous who question standard norms and look for alignment with their personal values and ethics. By revealing her ideas publicly, Burstyn welcomes others to review their options, motivating an assessment of how one's actions align with their ideals. Her openness in sharing this internal discussion can influence conversations around ethical living and personal integrity.