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Crowning glory Quote by Bess Streeter Aldrich

“Hair, to Tillie, meant nothing by way of being a woman's crowning glory. It was merely, as the dictionary so ably states, small horny, fibrous tubes with bulbous roots, growing out of the skins of mammals; and it was meant to be combed down as flat as possible and held in place with countless wire…” quote by Bess Streeter Aldrich
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““Hair, to Tillie, meant nothing by way of being a woman's crowning glory. It was merely, as the dictionary so ably states, small horny, fibrous tubes with bulbous roots, growing out of the skins of mammals; and it was meant to be combed down as flat as possible and held in place with countless wire hairpins.””

Bess Streeter Aldrich

About This Quote

Source Novel: “The House of the Seven Gables” by Bess Streeter Aldrich, 1915

Hair is described biologically, stripped of romantic symbolism, emphasizing its mundane, physical nature.

In simple terms: Hair is just a body part, not a glory.

Key Takeaway

Recognize the difference between cultural myth and biological fact.

Themes

biology culture gender perception

Mood

analytical reflective

Type

observational critical

When to use this quote

  • personal grooming
  • fashion industry
  • media representation
  • education on anatomy

Key Concepts

anatomy symbolism social constructs

Questions to Reflect On

  • Why do societies elevate hair to a symbol of status?
  • How does this view affect personal identity?
A Different Perspective

The quote may overlook the emotional significance many attach to hair.

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