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With his mouth open, he gave off that alcoholic smell that…

“With his mouth open, he gave off that alcoholic smell that you get from an old brandy cask when you take out the bung.” quote by Émile Zola
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““With his mouth open, he gave off that alcoholic smell that you get from an old brandy cask when you take out the bung.””

Émile Zola

About This Quote

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

A vivid description uses sensory detail to convey a character’s alcoholism, likening it to the smell of aged brandy.

In simple terms: Alcohol smell described vividly.

Key Takeaway

Use sensory details to paint scenes.

Themes

literature sensory description characterization

Mood

descriptive critical

Type

literary analytical

When to use this quote

  • novels
  • character studies
  • historical fiction

Key Concepts

writing psychology social commentary

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does sensory imagery affect reader empathy?
  • What alternatives convey addiction without glamorizing?
A Different Perspective

May romanticize harmful behavior.

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