Skip to content

I see you go bare-shod. This is most likely extremely…

“I see you go bare-shod. This is most likely extremely sensible. Shoes are no end of trouble for girls. . . . How many have danced to death in slippers of silk and glass and fur and wood? Too many to count—the graveyards, they are so full these days. You are very wise to let your soles become…” quote by Catherynne M. Valente
Download Open image
““I see you go bare-shod. This is most likely extremely sensible. Shoes are no end of trouble for girls. . . . How many have danced to death in slippers of silk and glass and fur and wood? Too many to count—the graveyards, they are so full these days. You are very wise to let your soles become grubby with mud, to let them grow their own slippers of moss and clay and calluses. This is far preferable to shoes which may become wicked at any moment.””

Catherynne M. Valente

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 praises barefoot walking as a practical, grounded choice, contrasting it with the fragility and danger of ornate footwear.

In simple terms: Bare feet are practical and safe compared to delicate shoes.

Key Takeaway

Choose simplicity and durability over fragile fashion.

Themes

practicality nature simplicity wisdom

Mood

reflective inspirational

Type

philosophical advice

When to use this quote

  • Hiking
  • daily commuting
  • children’s play
  • crafting footwear

Key Concepts

Embodiment material culture human resilience

Questions to Reflect On

  • What benefits do you gain from embracing simplicity?
  • How can you protect yourself while staying grounded?
A Different Perspective

Barefoot walking may expose feet to injury or social stigma.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Catherynne M. Valente

Explore all 621 Catherynne M. Valente quotes

More Barefoot quotes

Browse all 250 Barefoot quotes