Skip to content

I've been in New York only a few days and I have learned…

“I've been in New York only a few days and I have learned only two words of your language: one is Swell, and the other is Lousy. ... 'It's swell to be with you and excuse, please, my lousy English!” quote by Vicki Baum
Download Open image
“I've been in New York only a few days and I have learned only two words of your language: one is Swell, and the other is Lousy. ... 'It's swell to be with you and excuse, please, my lousy English!”

Vicki Baum

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 observes that New York locals use only two adjectives, "swell" and "lousy," reflecting mixed impressions.

In simple terms: New Yorkers use "swell" and "lousy" to describe experiences.

Key Takeaway

Embrace both positive and negative feedback.

Themes

perception language culture communication

Mood

curious reflective

Type

observational humorous

When to use this quote

  • travel
  • language learning
  • social interactions
  • adjusting to new environments

Key Concepts

social linguistics first impressions

Questions to Reflect On

  • What other words could capture your experience?
  • How do you interpret "swell" and "lousy" in context?
A Different Perspective

The view is limited to two words, missing nuance.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Vicki Baum

Explore all 32 Vicki Baum quotes

More English language quotes

Browse all 686 English language quotes