Skip to content

Sorry, poppet,” I tell Aoife. “I was miles away.” “No, you…

“Sorry, poppet,” I tell Aoife. “I was miles away.” “No, you weren’t. You’re right here.” “I was miles away metaphorically.” “What’s meta … frickilly?” “The opposite of literally.” “What’s litter-lily?” “The opposite of metaphorically.” Aoife pouts. “Be serious, Daddy.” quote by David Mitchell
Download Open image
““Sorry, poppet,” I tell Aoife. “I was miles away.” “No, you weren’t. You’re right here.” “I was miles away metaphorically.” “What’s meta … frickilly?” “The opposite of literally.” “What’s litter-lily?” “The opposite of metaphorically.” Aoife pouts. “Be serious, Daddy.””

David Mitchell

About This Quote

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

A conversation about distance and metaphor explores how language can both connect and confuse intimacy.

In simple terms: Words can mislead about closeness.

Key Takeaway

Seek clarity beyond metaphor.

Themes

communication relationship language

Mood

playful introspective

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • relationship counseling
  • creative writing
  • teaching language
  • conflict resolution

Key Concepts

linguistics philosophy of meaning

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you ensure you’re truly present?
  • When do metaphors help vs. hinder?
A Different Perspective

Metaphors may hide true feelings.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by David Mitchell

Explore all 748 David Mitchell quotes

More Metaphor quotes

Browse all 1,548 Metaphor quotes