Meaning: The quote "We have to draw the line somewhere. I don't let my picture be taken. I'm on too many hit lists" by Jack Chick, a cartoonist, reflects his personal stance and caution about being photographed. This quote offers insight into Chick's mindset and the potential risks or threats he may have perceived in his life. To understand the context and significance of this quote, it is important to delve into Jack Chick's background and the impact of his work.

Jack Chick (1924–2016) was an American cartoonist and publisher, best known for his evangelical Christian tracts. These tracts were small, comic-book-like pamphlets that often contained Chick's strongly held beliefs about religion, salvation, and the spiritual realm. Chick's work was characterized by its uncompromising and often controversial viewpoints, particularly within the evangelical Christian community.

The quote suggests that Chick is wary of being photographed due to concerns about potential threats or dangers. This could be interpreted in several ways. It may indicate that Chick felt his work had garnered significant attention and notoriety, leading to the possibility of being targeted by individuals or groups who opposed his views. It also reflects a sense of personal vigilance and a desire to maintain a level of privacy and security in his life.

Chick's reluctance to have his picture taken could be seen as a manifestation of the intense scrutiny and criticism he faced throughout his career. His tracts, which tackled contentious topics such as religious conversion, the occult, and the perceived dangers of Catholicism, often sparked heated debates and polarized opinions. As a result, Chick may have felt the need to protect himself from potential backlash or harm.

Furthermore, the phrase "I'm on too many hit lists" suggests that Chick believed he was a target for those who opposed his beliefs and the content of his tracts. This statement underscores the perceived threats that Chick associated with his public persona and the controversial nature of his work. It also sheds light on the level of conviction and commitment Chick had to his beliefs, despite the risks and challenges he faced.

Chick's quote can also be viewed in the broader context of artistic expression and the impact of provocative or divisive content. Throughout history, artists, writers, and creators who have addressed contentious themes or challenged established norms have often faced backlash and even danger as a result of their work. Chick's quote serves as a reminder of the potential risks and sacrifices that individuals may endure in the pursuit of expressing their beliefs and convictions through art.

In conclusion, Jack Chick's quote "We have to draw the line somewhere. I don't let my picture be taken. I'm on too many hit lists" provides insight into his mindset, the challenges he confronted, and the personal risks he perceived. It encapsulates the complex interplay between artistic expression, personal conviction, and the potential consequences of challenging established beliefs. Chick's legacy as a controversial and influential figure in evangelical Christian literature is underscored by his unwavering commitment to his beliefs, even in the face of perceived threats and opposition.