Skip to content

What was the point, I told myself, of trying to explain to…

“What was the point, I told myself, of trying to explain to people who would never understand? Frankness just stirred up trouble amoung women who thought only of themselves, always looking for reasons to carp and complain. It was so rare to find anyone who truly understood, I had learned to keep my…” quote by Liza Dalby
Download Open image
““What was the point, I told myself, of trying to explain to people who would never understand? Frankness just stirred up trouble amoung women who thought only of themselves, always looking for reasons to carp and complain. It was so rare to find anyone who truly understood, I had learned to keep my thoughts to myself. In fact, if I had never had the experience of knowing such a one, I might have said it was impossible. Most people judge everything by their own narrow standards. Page 357””

Liza Dalby

About This Quote

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

The author expresses frustration at trying to communicate with self‑absorbed people who never understand, leading to isolation and self‑censorship.

In simple terms: Trying to explain to selfish people feels futile, causing the speaker to keep thoughts private.

Key Takeaway

Accept that not everyone will understand; protect your inner voice.

Themes

communication frustration isolation self‑preservation

Mood

irritated reflective

Type

personal observational

When to use this quote

  • personal relationships
  • workplace
  • online forums
  • family gatherings

Key Concepts

empathy social dynamics psychology

Questions to Reflect On

  • Who truly listens to you?
  • How do you decide when to speak or stay silent?
A Different Perspective

Even if some understand, sharing may still cause conflict or misinterpretation.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Liza Dalby

Explore all 12 Liza Dalby quotes

More Frankness quotes

Browse all 82 Frankness quotes