Obsess Quote by Donald Barthelme
““Little is known about her. We are assured, however, that the same damnable involvements that obsess us obsess her too. Copulation. Strangeness. Applause.””
About This Quote
Source Story: “The Balloon” from *Sixty Stories*, 1981
A satirical observation that personal obsessions and societal expectations trap both men and women in similar absurdities.
In simple terms: People share strange fixations and seek applause.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and question the absurdities we accept.
Themes
satire
gender
society
absurdity
Mood
ironic
critical
wry
Type
literary
satirical
When to use this quote
- personal relationships
- media criticism
- artistic expression
- social norms
Key Concepts
existentialism
social critique
Questions to Reflect On
- How do societal expectations shape personal obsessions?
- What role does applause play in validating absurd behavior?
A Different Perspective
The humor may downplay genuine suffering behind such obsessions.
