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Oh, by the way, the plot: it almost slipped my mind…

“Oh, by the way, the plot: it almost slipped my mind. Charlie French bought my mother’s pictures cheap and sold them dear to Binkie Behrens, then bought them cheap from Binkie and sold them on to Max Molyneaux. Something like that. Does it matter? Dark deeds, dark deeds. Enough.” quote by John Banville
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““Oh, by the way, the plot: it almost slipped my mind. Charlie French bought my mother’s pictures cheap and sold them dear to Binkie Behrens, then bought them cheap from Binkie and sold them on to Max Molyneaux. Something like that. Does it matter? Dark deeds, dark deeds. Enough.””

John Banville

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 reflects on a convoluted art deal, questioning its moral significance amid darker actions.

In simple terms: A shady art transaction is recounted, hinting at deeper moral issues.

Key Takeaway

Consider the ethics behind seemingly trivial dealings.

Themes

art morality deception reflection

Mood

cynical reflective

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • gallery transactions
  • family inheritance
  • personal conscience

Key Concepts

ethical ambiguity human nature

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does this reveal about the character's values?
  • How do small crimes reflect larger moral failings?
A Different Perspective

The anecdote may downplay the seriousness of the underlying exploitation.

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