Do you mind not intoning the responses, Jeeves?" I said…
““Do you mind not intoning the responses, Jeeves?" I said. "This is a most complicated story for a man with a headache to have to tell, and if you interrupt you'll make me lose the thread. As a favour to me, therefore, don't do it. Just nod every now and then to show that you're following me." I closed my eyes and marshalled the facts. "To start with then, Jeeves, you may or may not know that Mr Sipperley is practically dependent on his Aunt Vera." "Would that be Miss Sipperley of the Paddock, Beckley-on-the-Moor, in Yorkshire, sir?" "Yes. Don't tell me you know her!" "Not personally, sir. But I have a cousin residing in the village who has some slight acquaintance with Miss Sipperley. He has described her to me as an imperious and quick-tempered old lady. ... But I beg your pardon, sir, I should have nodded." "Quite right, you should have nodded. Yes, Jeeves, you should have nodded. But it's too late now.””
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 asks his valet to listen silently while he narrates a tangled story, highlighting the need for patience and attentive listening in complex conversations.
In simple terms: Listen quietly while someone tells a complicated story.
Key Takeaway
Give full attention without interrupting.
Themes
patience
listening
communication
social etiquette
Mood
calm
reflective
humorous
Type
literary
dialogue
humor
When to use this quote
- formal dinner conversation
- office briefing
- family dispute
- storytelling sessions
Key Concepts
social dynamics
power of silence
narrative complexity
Questions to Reflect On
- How does silent attention affect understanding?
- When is it better to ask clarifying questions?
A Different Perspective
If the listener nods without understanding, misinterpretation may occur.