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Never before have the American people had their noses so…

“Never before have the American people had their noses so deeply in one another's business. If I announce that I and eleven other diners shared a thirty-seven-course lunch that likely cost as much as a new Volvo station wagon, Those of a critical nature will let their minds run in tiny, aghast…” quote by Jim Harrison
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““Never before have the American people had their noses so deeply in one another's business. If I announce that I and eleven other diners shared a thirty-seven-course lunch that likely cost as much as a new Volvo station wagon, Those of a critical nature will let their minds run in tiny, aghast circles of condemnation. My response to them is that none of us twelve disciples of gourmandise wanted a new Volvo. We wanted only lunch and since lunch lasted approximately eleven hours we saved money by not having to buy diner. The defense rests.””

Jim Harrison

About This Quote

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

The speaker mocks critics who overreact to extravagant spending, emphasizing that the true value lies in shared experience, not material goods.

In simple terms: Critics focus on cost, but the experience matters more.

Key Takeaway

Value experiences over appearances.

Themes

materialism criticism shared experience humor

Mood

witty critical

Type

satirical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • discussing lavish meals
  • public debates on spending
  • media criticism

Key Concepts

satire social commentary value perception

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does this say about societal values?
  • How do you balance indulgence and responsibility?
A Different Perspective

The satire may not translate without context, reducing impact.

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