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Prunesquallor, as urbane as ever, had nevertheless…

“Prunesquallor, as urbane as ever, had nevertheless something in his fish-like eyes that might almost be described as determination. One glance at his sister was sufficient to make him realize that to attempt to reason with her would be about as fruitful as to try to christianize a vulture.” quote by Mervyn Peake
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““Prunesquallor, as urbane as ever, had nevertheless something in his fish-like eyes that might almost be described as determination. One glance at his sister was sufficient to make him realize that to attempt to reason with her would be about as fruitful as to try to christianize a vulture.””

Mervyn Peake

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’s fierce determination is contrasted with the futility of trying to change an unyielding sibling, highlighting the limits of rational persuasion.

In simple terms: Determination meets stubbornness.

Key Takeaway

Accept when reason cannot change someone.

Themes

determination family futility

Mood

reflective somber

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • family negotiations
  • leadership
  • personal boundaries

Key Concepts

character study psychology conflict

Questions to Reflect On

  • When should you accept resistance?
  • What strategies work when reason fails?
A Different Perspective

Changing others may be impossible.

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