If you read about the Brown Bar-ba-loots getting the "crummies" and don't feel bad for the little buggers, you are a heartless, Shmoopless meanie. The Lorax seems designed to increase compassion, especially toward beings who inhabit the natural world and who are largely at the mercy of humans. Looking back on his life, the Once-ler is finally able to feel the compassion he was lacking back in the day. And boy do we feel it, too.
Questions and Answers
Q: Why doesn't the Once-ler try to help when he sees that the forest creatures are sick?
A: The Once-ler seems to be a little caught up in his own life, don't you think? Sometimes, when you focus only on yourself, you forget about everyone else around you.
Q: How can we forgive the Once-ler? He was really mean.
A: Forgiveness is tough. Sometimes, though, forgiving someone can help you feel better. Has it ever helped you?