Flailing and thrashing, Buttercup wept and tossed and…
“Flailing and thrashing, Buttercup wept and tossed and paced and wept some more, and there have been three great cases of jealousy since David of Galilee was first afflicted with the emotion when he could no longer stand the fact that his neighbor Saul's cactus outshone his own. (Originally, jealousy pertained solely to plants, other people's cactus or ginkgoes, or, later, when there was grass, grass, which is why, even to this day, we say that someone is green with jealousy.) Buttercup's case rated a close fourth on the all-time list. It was a very long and very green night.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Jealousy is portrayed humorously, likening it to green envy over plants.
In simple terms: Jealousy is absurd and vivid.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and temper envy.
Themes
jealousy
humor
emotion
Mood
witty
satirical
Type
literary
observational
When to use this quote
- friendship
- workplace
- family dynamics
Key Concepts
social comparison
psychology of envy
Questions to Reflect On
- What triggers your envy?
- How can you transform jealousy?
A Different Perspective
Jealousy can damage relationships.