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You know Mildred would never do anything wrong or foolish…

“You know Mildred would never do anything wrong or foolish. I reflected a little sadly that this was only too true and hoped I did not appear too much that kind of person to others. Virtue is an excellent thing and we should all strive after it, but it can sometimes be a little depressing.” quote by Barbara Pym
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“You know Mildred would never do anything wrong or foolish. I reflected a little sadly that this was only too true and hoped I did not appear too much that kind of person to others. Virtue is an excellent thing and we should all strive after it, but it can sometimes be a little depressing.”

Barbara Pym

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

The narrator admires Mildred’s flawless virtue but feels that such perfection can be isolating and discouraging.

In simple terms: Virtue can feel lonely and sad.

Key Takeaway

Accept imperfections in yourself and others.

Themes

virtue loneliness self‑acceptance

Mood

reflective melancholy

Type

literary contemplative

When to use this quote

  • personal relationships
  • self‑reflection
  • mental health
  • community interaction

Key Concepts

moral idealism social expectation

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do you hide imperfections to appear virtuous?
  • How does idealizing virtue affect relationships?
A Different Perspective

Perfection may alienate and hinder authentic connections.

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