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I don’t even know if we have a broom closet, Mrs. Levin,”…

“I don’t even know if we have a broom closet, Mrs. Levin,” said Tasha. “Tasha, honestly! In this world, to be overly literal is a profound weakness. It doesn’t have to be a broom closet. Just put her somewhere out of the way until I get there. It could be a basement. It could be the roof. It could…” quote by Gabrielle Zevin
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““I don’t even know if we have a broom closet, Mrs. Levin,” said Tasha. “Tasha, honestly! In this world, to be overly literal is a profound weakness. It doesn’t have to be a broom closet. Just put her somewhere out of the way until I get there. It could be a basement. It could be the roof. It could be a neglected cubicle. The location of your motherfucking choosing!” Embeth hung up the phone. This girl was hopeless.””

Gabrielle Zevin

About This Quote

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

The quote critiques literal thinking and the tendency to hide problems, highlighting the need for honest communication and confronting issues directly.

In simple terms: Being overly literal is a weakness; hide problems in figurative places; confront them.

Key Takeaway

Speak truthfully and address issues head‑on.

Themes

communication honesty problem‑solving literalism avoidance

Mood

candid serious

Type

literary conversational

When to use this quote

  • workplace disputes
  • family arguments
  • personal boundaries

Key Concepts

psychology interpersonal dynamics conflict avoidance

Questions to Reflect On

  • What are you avoiding?
  • How can you address problems directly?
A Different Perspective

Literal solutions may ignore deeper issues.

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