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How was New York?' Ashley asks politely. I'm not sure how…

“How was New York?' Ashley asks politely. I'm not sure how to respond. Something like: Well, the mustachioed master of the secret library is going to be pissed that I copied the entirety of his ancient codebook and delivered it to Google, but at least I got to stay at a nice hotel? Instead I say…” quote by Robin Sloan
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““How was New York?' Ashley asks politely. I'm not sure how to respond. Something like: Well, the mustachioed master of the secret library is going to be pissed that I copied the entirety of his ancient codebook and delivered it to Google, but at least I got to stay at a nice hotel? Instead I say, "New York was good.””

Robin Sloan

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 uncertain about how to respond to a polite question about New York, fearing judgment for a past wrongdoing but also noting a positive experience staying at a nice hotel.

In simple terms: Unclear how to answer a polite question while dealing with guilt and a good memory.

Key Takeaway

Choose a simple honest reply.

Themes

communication guilt travel

Mood

reflective conflicted

Type

personal narrative

When to use this quote

  • asking about a city
  • apologizing for past actions
  • staying in a hotel
  • talking to friends

Key Concepts

self‑presentation social anxiety ethical dilemmas

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you acknowledge the positive while staying authentic?
  • What does the “master of the secret library” symbolize for you?
A Different Perspective

A brief answer may seem dismissive or hide deeper feelings.

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