Communication Quote by Dorothy Dunnett
““The English make bonny speeches, but they run to an awful wee man. And the Kerrs . . . there’s something unchancy about a left-handed race.’ ‘I’m right-handed,’ offered Will Scott. ‘Aye.’ ‘And six foot three in my hose.’ ‘Uh-huh. I didna say I wanted to run up a beanpole. Nor have I heard hide nor hair of a speech, bonny or otherwise.’ ‘I’m saving it,’ he said austerely, ‘till I’ve the theme for it.’ ‘Oh!’ said Grizel Beaton (Younger) of Buccleuch, with a squeal of delight. ‘Will Scott! Are we having our first married set-to?””
About This Quote
Source Novel: King Here, 1975
Characters use humor and self‑deprecation to mask deeper insecurities about identity and status.
In simple terms: People hide anxieties behind jokes.
Key Takeaway
Recognize underlying insecurities.
Themes
identity
humor
insecurity
Mood
witty
critical
Type
satirical
literary
When to use this quote
- team meetings
- social gatherings
- public speaking
- first impressions
Key Concepts
social dynamics
self‑presentation
literary satire
Questions to Reflect On
- What masks are you using?
- How does humor affect authenticity?
A Different Perspective
Humor can obscure genuine concerns.
