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The appearance presented by the streets of London an hour…

“The appearance presented by the streets of London an hour before sunrise, on a summer's morning, is most striking even to the few whose unfortunate pursuits of pleasure, or scarcely less unfortunate pursuits of business, cause them to be well acquainted with the scene. There is an air of cold…” quote by Charles Dickens
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“The appearance presented by the streets of London an hour before sunrise, on a summer's morning, is most striking even to the few whose unfortunate pursuits of pleasure, or scarcely less unfortunate pursuits of business, cause them to be well acquainted with the scene. There is an air of cold, solitary desolation about the noiseless streets which we are accustomed to see thronged at other times by a busy, eager crowd, and over the quiet, closely-shut buildings, which throughout the day are swarming with life and bustle, that is very impressive.”

Charles Dickens

About This Quote

Source Novel: Bleak House, 1853

Early morning London streets appear desolate yet striking, contrasting with daytime bustle.

In simple terms: Quiet sunrise streets are strikingly empty.

Key Takeaway

Observe the beauty in quiet moments.

Themes

urban life contrast solitude

Mood

reflective melancholic

Type

descriptive literary

When to use this quote

  • early morning walks
  • photography
  • urban planning

Key Concepts

cityscape morning light social dynamics

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does the silence reveal about the city?
  • How does crowding change perception?
A Different Perspective

May romanticize emptiness.

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