Coney island Quote by Colm Tóibín
““He arranged the ceremony for two o'clock in the afternoon a week before she was to leave. The exam had gone well and she was almost certain that she would qualify. Because other couples to be married came with family and friends, their ceremony seemed brisk and over quickly and caused much curiosity among those waiting because they had come alone. On their journey to Coney Island on the train that afternoon Tony raised the question for the first time of when they might marry in church and live together. 'I have money saved,' he said, 'so we could get an apartment and then move to the house when it's ready.' 'I don't mind,' she said. 'I wish we were going home together now.' He touched her hand. 'So do I,' he said. 'And the ring looks great on your finger.' She looked down at the ring. 'I'd better remember to take it off before Mrs Kehoe sees it.' The ocean was rough and grey and the wind blew white billowing clouds quickly across the sky. They moved slowly along the boardwalk and down the pier, where they stood watching the fishermen. As they walked back and sat eating hot dogs at Nathan's, Eilis spotted someone at the next table checking out her wedding ring. She smiled at herself. 'Will we ever tell our children that we did this?' she asked.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: Brooklyn by Colm Tóibín, 2009
A young couple navigates love, uncertainty, and future plans amid a fleeting moment of intimacy and societal expectations.
In simple terms: Love and future plans in a brief, uncertain moment.
Embrace the present while planning together.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- first date
- engagement talk
- planning a home
- watching strangers
- reflecting on legacy
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance present joy with future responsibilities?
- What fears arise when planning a shared life?
The narrative may romanticize uncertainty, overlooking practical challenges of marriage.