On the night before the wedding, when Chips left the house…
““On the night before the wedding, when Chips left the house to return to his hotel, she said, with mock gravity: "This is an occasion, you know--this last farewell of ours. I feel rather like a new boy beginning his first term with you. Not scared, mind you--but just, for once, in a thoroughly respectful mood. Shall I call you 'sir'--or would 'Mr. Chips' be the right thing? 'Mr. Chips,' I think. Good-bye, then--good-bye, Mr. Chips. . . .””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
A departing teacher reflects on his relationship with a student, blending respect and affection in a farewell.
In simple terms: A teacher says goodbye with respect and warmth.
Key Takeaway
Cherish respectful farewells.
Themes
respect
farewell
teacher‑student
nostalgia
Mood
warm
reflective
Type
literary
emotional
When to use this quote
- graduation
- retirement
- last day of work
- personal goodbyes
Key Concepts
identity
growth
empathy
Questions to Reflect On
- How does respect shape a goodbye?
- What does a farewell reveal about connection?
A Different Perspective
May the sentiment feel forced rather than genuine.