There are times when you almost tell the harmless old lady…
““There are times when you almost tell the harmless old lady next door what you really think of her face—that it ought to be on a night-nurse in a house for the blind; when you’d like to ask the man you’ve been waiting ten minutes for if he isn’t all overheated from racing the postman down the block; when you nearly say to the waiter that if they deducted a cent from the bill for every degree the soup was below tepid the hotel would owe you half a dollar; when—and this is the infallible earmark of true exasperation—a smile affects you as an oil-baron’s undershirt affects a cow’s husband. But the moment passes. Scars may remain on your dog or your collar or your telephone receiver, but your soul has slid gently back into its place between the lower edge of your heart and the upper edge of your stomach, and all is at peace.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Frustration builds when social niceties clash with inner impulses, leading to suppressed thoughts that eventually find release, restoring inner balance.
In simple terms: Holding back thoughts creates tension; release restores peace.
Key Takeaway
Allow honest expression.
Themes
social tension
inner conflict
humor
relief
Mood
wry
reflective
Type
literary
humorous
When to use this quote
- dinner parties
- office meetings
- family gatherings
Key Concepts
psychology
etiquette
self‑expression
stress management
Questions to Reflect On
- When do you choose honesty over politeness?
- What outlets help you vent safely?
A Different Perspective
Suppressing emotions can harm mental health if not managed.