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I don't like apartments - the idea of other people living…

“I don't like apartments - the idea of other people living, copulating and defecating above me - they make me feel as trapped as a slice of ham in a sandwich. When I was a student in Paris, I always rented attics right at the top of buildings, and as soon as I was making enough money, I bought…” quote by Eric-Emmanuel Schmitt
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“I don't like apartments - the idea of other people living, copulating and defecating above me - they make me feel as trapped as a slice of ham in a sandwich. When I was a student in Paris, I always rented attics right at the top of buildings, and as soon as I was making enough money, I bought houses.”

Eric-Emmanuel Schmitt

About This Quote

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

The speaker feels claustrophobic about shared living spaces, preferring solitude and ownership to avoid feeling trapped.

In simple terms: Living with others feels confining; prefers private space.

Key Takeaway

Seek living arrangements that give you personal freedom.

Themes

privacy space urban living personal comfort

Mood

anxious reflective

Type

personal essay reflective

When to use this quote

  • renting attics
  • buying houses
  • choosing neighborhoods

Key Concepts

existential discomfort urban isolation

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does your environment affect your sense of freedom?
  • What trade‑offs are you willing to accept for privacy?
A Different Perspective

Shared spaces can foster community and reduce costs.

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