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High heels Quote by Charles Bukowski

“Here came the waitress. She had on a mini-skirt, high heels, see-through blouse with padded brassiere. Everything was too small for her: her outfit, the world, her mind. Her face was hard as steel. When she smiled it hurt. It hurt her and it hurt me. She kept smiling. That smile was so false the…” quote by Charles Bukowski
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““Here came the waitress. She had on a mini-skirt, high heels, see-through blouse with padded brassiere. Everything was too small for her: her outfit, the world, her mind. Her face was hard as steel. When she smiled it hurt. It hurt her and it hurt me. She kept smiling. That smile was so false the hairs on my arms rose. I looked away.””

Charles Bukowski

About This Quote

A waitress’s attire and forced smile are described as painful and artificial, evoking discomfort and alienation in the observer.

In simple terms: Forced appearances can cause mutual distress.

Key Takeaway

Recognize the impact of inauthenticity.

Themes

social critique appearance discomfort

Mood

raw critical

Type

literary observational

When to use this quote

  • hospitality industry
  • personal boundaries
  • mental health
  • artistic observation

Key Concepts

fashion gender expectations

Questions to Reflect On

  • Why does her smile cause pain?
  • How does attire affect perception?
A Different Perspective

Judgment may overlook deeper struggles.

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