Happiness Quote by Amy Levy
““Yes, you will. You have no end of pluck. One day you are going to be very happy." "Never, Gerty. We rich girls always end up with sneaks- no decent person comes near us." "There are other things which make happiness besides- pleasant things happening to one." "What sort of things?" Gertrude paused a minute, then said bravely: "Our own self-respect, and the integrity of the people we care for." "That sounds very nice," replied Conny, without enthusiasm, "but I should like a little bit of the more obvious sort of happiness as well." Gertrude gave a laugh, which was also a sob. "So should I, Conny, so should I.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: “The New Woman” (fictional dialogue), early 20th century
The passage explores the tension between self‑respect, integrity, and the desire for conventional happiness, highlighting that true fulfillment comes from inner values as well as external joys.
In simple terms: Self‑respect and integrity are key to lasting happiness
Key Takeaway
Value inner integrity alongside external pleasures
Themes
self‑respect
integrity
happiness
Mood
reflective
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
conversational
When to use this quote
- personal growth
- relationship choices
- seeking fulfillment
Key Concepts
ethical philosophy
psychology
social expectations
Questions to Reflect On
- What does true happiness mean to you?
- How can you balance personal integrity with societal expectations?
A Different Perspective
Happiness also depends on external circumstances and relationships
![“...[H]e's so good and good people are usually happy. But do happy things happen to the good, or can the good make happiness out of unhappiness?” quote by Dodie Smith](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/7a3/dodie-smith-1724_good-people_h-e-s-so-good-and-good-people-are-usuall_261796.jpg)
