"You're not allowed to step out of whatever the rules are, politically, or socially, and they'll get you for it, they'll hunt you down. That's the really frightening thing"

In this quote, Timothy West is highlighting the social and political pressures that impose conformity and suppress dissent or variance from established norms. He appears to be talking about the intolerance or punitive measures directed towards individuals who challenge or try to step outside these established limits.

The metaphor of being "hunted down" brings a particularly strong undertone, suggesting an active and perhaps aggressive effort to control and penalize those who dare to believe or act in a different way. This can be translated as a critique of the systems-- be they political, social, or cultural-- that focus on harmony and obedience over uniqueness and free expression.

West's option of words like "frightening" stresses the underlying fear of reprisals, ostracization, or perhaps more tangible sanctions that dissenters might face. This speaks to a more comprehensive human issue over the loss of autonomy and the possible repercussions of not adhering to social expectations.

His reflection might be viewed as a commentary on the modern-day landscape where particular political or social opinions are implemented through social media shaming, public labeling, or even worse. It underscores the tension in between private liberty and collective standards, and the potential hazard of wandering off from what is deemed 'appropriate.'.

Additionally, this point of view may resonate with those who feel marginalized or pushed to conform versus their beliefs. It points to a paradox within democratic or totally free societies where, ideally, multiple perspectives must coexist without fear.

In essence, West's quote motivates a vital evaluation of the boundaries that are set by society and politics, urging for a fragile balance in between preserving order and allowing area for uniqueness and totally free expression without fear of being metaphorically "hounded" for nonconformity.