Books Quote by Beverley Nichols
![“Often, when I have been feeling lonely, when a book as been thrust aside in boredom [...] I have lain back and stared at the shadows on the ceiling, wondering what life is all about [...] and then, suddenly, there is the echo of the swinging door, and across the carpet, walking with the utmost…” quote by Beverley Nichols](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/5a7/beverley-nichols-23529_books_often-when-i-have-been-feeling-lonely-wh_3015190.jpg)
““Often, when I have been feeling lonely, when a book as been thrust aside in boredom [...] I have lain back and stared at the shadows on the ceiling, wondering what life is all about [...] and then, suddenly, there is the echo of the swinging door, and across the carpet, walking with the utmost delicacy and precision, stalks Four or Five or Oscar. He sits down on the floor beside me, regarding my long legs, my old jumper, and my floppy arms, with a purely practical interest. Which part of this large male body will form the most appropriate lap? Usually he settles for the chest. Whereupon he springs up and there is a feeling of cold fur [...] and the tip of an icy nose, thrust against my wrist and a positive tattoo of purrs. And I no longer wonder what life is all about.””
About This Quote
Source Short story: The Cat and the Shadow, 1930s (published in a literary magazine)
Loneliness can be eased by unexpected companionship, turning mundane moments into comfort.
In simple terms: A cat’s presence eases existential doubt.
Key Takeaway
Seek simple comforts in solitude.
Themes
loneliness
companionship
comfort
Mood
contemplative
warm
Type
personal
observational
When to use this quote
- reading alone
- late‑night thoughts
- pet therapy
- creative writing
Key Concepts
psychology
everyday magic
human‑animal bond
Questions to Reflect On
- What small comforts help you in lonely times?
- How does an animal’s presence shift your mood?
A Different Perspective
May not replace deeper social connections.
