Skip to content

What are you thinking of so earnestly?" said he, as they…

“What are you thinking of so earnestly?" said he, as they walked back to the ballroom; "not of your partner, I hope, for, by that shake of the head, your meditations are not satisfactory." Catherine coloured, and said, "I was not thinking of anything." That is artful and deep, to be sure; but I had…” quote by Jane Austen
Download Open image
“What are you thinking of so earnestly?" said he, as they walked back to the ballroom; "not of your partner, I hope, for, by that shake of the head, your meditations are not satisfactory." Catherine coloured, and said, "I was not thinking of anything." That is artful and deep, to be sure; but I had rather be told at once that you will not tell me." Well then, I will not." Thank you; for now we shall soon be acquainted, as I am authorized to tease you on this subject whenever we meet, and nothing in the world advances intimacy so much.”

Jane Austen

About This Quote

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

A character warns that superficial thoughts hinder true connection, urging deeper reflection before intimacy can grow.

In simple terms: Shallow thoughts block genuine intimacy.

Key Takeaway

Seek deeper understanding before intimacy.

Themes

intimacy communication self-awareness

Mood

thoughtful playful

Type

literary conversational

When to use this quote

  • courtship
  • first meetings
  • conflict resolution

Key Concepts

social dynamics psychology literary dialogue

Questions to Reflect On

  • What deeper thoughts do you avoid sharing?
  • How can honesty accelerate intimacy?
A Different Perspective

It may overlook the value of spontaneous honesty.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Jane Austen

Explore all 2,013 Jane Austen quotes

More Intimacy quotes

Browse all 1,461 Intimacy quotes