So she ignored Mrs. Arbuthnot's remark and raised…
““So she ignored Mrs. Arbuthnot's remark and raised forefinger, and said with marked coldness—at least, she tried to make it sound marked— that she supposed they would be going to breakfast, and that she had had hers; but it was her fate that however coldly she sent forth her words they came out sounding quite warm and agreeable. That was because she had a sympathetic and delightful voice, due entirely to some special formation of her throat and the roof of her mouth, and having nothing whatever to do with what she was feeling. Nobody in consequence ever believed they were being snubbed. It was most tiresome. And if she stared icily it did not look icy at all, because her eyes, lovely to begin with, had the added loveliness of very long, soft, dark eyelashes. No icy stare could come out of eyes like that; it got caught and lost in the soft eyelashes, and the persons stared at merely thought they were being regarded with a flattering and exquisite attentiveness. And if ever she was out of humour or definitely cross— and who would not be sometimes in such a world?—-she only looked so pathetic that people all rushed to comfort her, if possible by means of kissing. It was more than tiresome, it was maddening. Nature was determined that she should look and sound angelic. She could never be disagreeable or rude without being completely misunderstood.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
She presents a woman whose outward charm masks inner feelings, making others misread her emotions and intentions.
In simple terms: Her appearance and voice hide her true mood, leading to misunderstanding.
Key Takeaway
Appearances can conceal true feelings.
Themes
appearance
misunderstanding
gender
communication
Mood
irry
frustrated
reflective
Type
literary
observational
When to use this quote
- social gatherings
- workplace interactions
- family dynamics
- public speaking
- romantic encounters
Key Concepts
social perception
self‑presentation
emotional labor
Questions to Reflect On
- How does reliance on charm affect authentic relationships?
- Can one be both kind and honest without being misunderstood?
A Different Perspective
Her charm may be seen as manipulative or inauthentic, limiting genuine connection.