Hand in hand Quote by Dorothy L. Sayers
““ Peter: Oy! Harriet: Hullo! Peter: I just wanted to ask whether you'd given any further thought to that suggestion about marrying me. Harriet (sarcastically) : I suppose you were thinking how delightful it would be to go through life together like this? Peter: Well, not quite like this. Hand in hand was more my idea. Harriet: What is that in your hand? Peter: A dead starfish. Harriet: Poor fish! Peter: No ill-feeling, I trust? Harriet: Oh, dear no.””
About This Quote
Source Play: The Man Who Knew Too Much, 1935
A comic dialogue uses absurdity to expose the awkwardness of forced romantic proposals.
In simple terms: Humor reveals discomfort in awkward proposals.
Key Takeaway
Use humor to defuse tension.
Themes
romance
communication
humor
Mood
playful
ironic
Type
satirical
dialogue
When to use this quote
- dating
- conflict resolution
- creative writing
Key Concepts
social dynamics
absurdity
courtship
Questions to Reflect On
- Is absurdity effective in serious conversations?
- When does humor become avoidance?
A Different Perspective
Humor may trivialize genuine feelings.
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