Skip to content

It's a big deal for working people to buy a diamond," he…

“It's a big deal for working people to buy a diamond," he told his sons, "no matter how small. The wife can wear it for the beauty and she can wear it for the status. And when she does, this guy is not just a plumber — he's a man with a wife with a diamond. His wife owns something that is…” quote by Philip Roth
Download Open image
““It's a big deal for working people to buy a diamond," he told his sons, "no matter how small. The wife can wear it for the beauty and she can wear it for the status. And when she does, this guy is not just a plumber — he's a man with a wife with a diamond. His wife owns something that is imperishable. Because beyond the beauty and the status and the value, the diamond is imperishable. A piece of the earth that is imperishable, and a mere mortal is wearing it on her hand!””

Philip Roth

About This Quote

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

Highlights how a diamond symbolizes lasting value and status beyond its material beauty.

In simple terms: Diamonds represent lasting status and permanence.

Key Takeaway

Recognize symbols of permanence.

Themes

status materialism symbolism

Mood

contemplative critical

Type

sociological cultural

When to use this quote

  • gift giving
  • marriage rituals
  • marketing
  • personal finance

Key Concepts

impermanence social identity

Questions to Reflect On

  • Why do people seek lasting symbols?
  • How does status affect relationships?
A Different Perspective

May overemphasize material symbols, neglecting deeper values.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Philip Roth

Explore all 388 Philip Roth quotes

More Big deal quotes

Browse all 1,273 Big deal quotes