I think it's degrading of you, Flora,' cried Mrs Smiling…
““I think it's degrading of you, Flora,' cried Mrs Smiling at breakfast. 'Do you truly mean that you don't ever want to work at anything?' Her friend replied after some thought: 'Well, when I am fifty-three or so I would like to write a novel as good as "Persuasion", but with a modern setting, of course. For the next thirty years or so I shall be collecting material for it. If anyone asks me what I work at, I shall say "Collecting material." No one can object to that. Besides, I shall be.' Mrs Smiling drank some coffee in silent disapproval. 'If you ask me,' continued Flora, 'I think I have much in common with Miss Austen. She liked everything to be tidy and pleasant and comfortable around her, and so do I. You see Mary,' - and here Flora began to grow earnest and to wave one finger about - 'unless everything is tidy and pleasant and comfortable all about one, people cannot even begin to enjoy life. I cannot endure messes.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Flora believes that a tidy, pleasant environment is essential for enjoying life, and she plans to spend decades gathering material for a future novel, using “collecting material” as a socially acceptable excuse.
In simple terms: A clean, comfortable setting is crucial for happiness; she will spend years gathering material for a novel.
Key Takeaway
Prioritize order and comfort; accept long‑term preparation as valid work.
Themes
order
comfort
creativity
Mood
reflective
determined
Type
personal
philosophical
creative
When to use this quote
- writing a novel
- personal organization
- career planning
- social perception
Key Concepts
environmental psychology
creative process
Questions to Reflect On
- How does environment affect creativity?
- Is “collecting material” a legitimate profession?
A Different Perspective
Her excuse may be seen as avoidance rather than genuine work.