Besides,” continued Gottfried, “you’re coming now to the…
““Besides,” continued Gottfried, “you’re coming now to the time when the difference between a bourgeois and a cavalier begins to show. A bourgeois always gets less attentive the longer he knows a woman. A cavalier, always more attentive.” He made an extended gesture. “With all this you can become an absolutely staggering cavalier.” I laughed. “That is all fine, Gottfried,” said I. “But what happens when you get caught? There’s not much of a getaway, and pious people might easily consider it as desecration of a holy place.” “My dear boy,” replied Lenz, “do you see anybody here? Since the war people go to political meetings, not to church.” That was true. “But what about the parsons?” I asked.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The passage contrasts the superficial attentiveness of a bourgeois with the genuine, daring attentiveness of a cavalier, suggesting that true engagement requires risk and boldness, especially under societal pressures.
In simple terms: Bourgeois vs. cavalier attentiveness
Key Takeaway
Bold attentiveness transcends social class
Themes
class dynamics
authenticity
risk
war impact
social expectations
Mood
reflective
ironic
cautious
Type
dialogue
philosophical observation
character insight
When to use this quote
- courtship in wartime
- navigating social hierarchies
- encountering religious scrutiny
- strategic social interactions
Key Concepts
attention
cavalier archetype
bourgeois complacency
political climate
Practical Applications
- adopting a bold stance in relationships
- leveraging risk to deepen connections
Questions to Reflect On
- How does risk alter genuine attentiveness?
- What social forces shape our expressions of care?