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I have always been a little disconcerted by the passion…

“I have always been a little disconcerted by the passion women have for behaving beautifully at the deathbed of those they love. Sometimes it seems as if they grudge the longevity which postpones their chance of an effective scene.” quote by W. Somerset Maugham
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““I have always been a little disconcerted by the passion women have for behaving beautifully at the deathbed of those they love. Sometimes it seems as if they grudge the longevity which postpones their chance of an effective scene.””

W. Somerset Maugham

About This Quote

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

The writer observes women’s tendency to perform beautiful gestures at loved ones’ deathbeds, suggesting this may hinder authentic emotional expression.

In simple terms: Women often act gracefully at death, which can mask true feelings.

Key Takeaway

Encourage honest emotional expression.

Themes

death gender roles performance

Mood

melancholic contemplative

Type

philosophical critical

When to use this quote

  • family bereavement
  • theatrical storytelling
  • personal grief

Key Concepts

authenticity social expectation

Questions to Reflect On

  • Why do people perform at moments of loss?
  • How does performance affect genuine mourning?
A Different Perspective

Such performances may be culturally reinforced.

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