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Yes. Laugh. But there’s sense in the old rules. They kept…

“Yes. Laugh. But there’s sense in the old rules. They kept people out of trouble.’ He was annoyed because I laughed, and said that a woman in my position needed extra dignity of behaviour. ‘What position?’ - I was suddenly very angry, because of the trapped feeling women get at such moments.” quote by Doris Lessing
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““Yes. Laugh. But there’s sense in the old rules. They kept people out of trouble.’ He was annoyed because I laughed, and said that a woman in my position needed extra dignity of behaviour. ‘What position?’ - I was suddenly very angry, because of the trapped feeling women get at such moments.””

Doris Lessing

About This Quote

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

Old social rules can protect but also restrict; questioning them may provoke anger and reveal deeper gender frustrations.

In simple terms: Rules protect yet limit; challenging them can cause anger.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and address restrictive norms.

Themes

gender social norms anger identity

Mood

thoughtful empowering

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • workplace
  • family gatherings
  • public speaking
  • personal relationships

Key Concepts

feminism conformity self‑respect emotional response

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you balance respect for tradition with personal dignity?
  • What triggers your anger in similar situations?
A Different Perspective

Rules may cause resentment if they ignore individual dignity.

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