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The more Susan waited, the more the doorbell didn't ring…

“The more Susan waited, the more the doorbell didn't ring. Or the phone. She looked at her watch. She felt that now was about the time that she could legitimately begin to feel cross. She was cross already, of course, but that had been in her own time, so to speak.” quote by Douglas Adams
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““The more Susan waited, the more the doorbell didn't ring. Or the phone. She looked at her watch. She felt that now was about the time that she could legitimately begin to feel cross. She was cross already, of course, but that had been in her own time, so to speak.””

Douglas Adams

About This Quote

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

Waiting can turn anticipation into frustration, highlighting how time perception shifts when expectations aren't met.

In simple terms: Waiting makes us impatient and angry.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and manage expectations.

Themes

patience frustration time perception expectation humor

Mood

wry humorous observational

Type

satirical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • daily commutes
  • customer service
  • online orders
  • meeting delays

Key Concepts

psychology of waiting absurdism human behavior

Questions to Reflect On

  • What triggers your impatience?
  • How can you reframe waiting periods?
A Different Perspective

Excessive waiting can cause unnecessary stress.

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