I think this is sum of the parts different than the whole. I was just pointing out that cruel has a very negative connotation ie - inhuman, barbaric, sadistic,

I think this is sum of the parts different than the whole. I was just pointing out that cruel has a very negative connotation ie - inhuman, barbaric, sadistic, evil, abominable etc. Applying it in the previous use case seemed excessive and implied a more radical tone than I believe the author (as he mentioned) wanted.