The article discusses a philosophical children's book by Lee Jin-min, which contemplates the importance of daily life against the backdrop of a restrictive society. The author yearns for a return to a serene existence where simple joys like eating Tteokbokki and engaging in casual conversations can take place without guilt. It touches on the lessons learned from a long winter, highlighting how societal peace is not a free gift but a result of collective effort, thus prompting introspection about the values we uphold in our lives.

The narrative in the book centers around an oppressive law that mandates the elimination of all non-brown cats, reflecting deeply on the nuances of compliance and morality. As characters in the story begin to follow this absurd law—reflecting a gradual but consistent erosion of societal norms—it becomes evident how silence and inaction can lead to dire consequences. Friends make sacrifices by euthanizing their beloved pets to conform with the regime's mandates, illustrating the loss of individual agency in a world dominated by blind adherence to authority.

The protagonist eventually faces the reality of living in a world exclusive to "brown" entities, mirroring historical phenomena where societal compliance leads to broader injustices. This narrative resonates with the infamous quote by Martin Niemöller regarding the dangers of apathy, emphasizing that in a world where we do not stand up collectively against oppression, we may find ourselves ultimately isolated and vulnerable when it is our turn to suffer. This poignant commentary serves not only as a critique of past and present societal issues but also urges a reconsideration of how we engage with our world today, advocating for awareness and action against tyranny.