Buttons Quote by Dorothy Parker
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“[Hospitalized and pressing the nurse's button before dictating letters to her secretary:] This should assure us of at least forty-five minutes of undisturbed privacy.”
About This Quote
Source Play: The Little Glass Eye, 1934
Privacy is a rare commodity; the speaker demands uninterrupted time despite being in a hospital.
In simple terms: Privacy is scarce; speaker wants undisturbed time.
Key Takeaway
Respect personal space when needed.
Themes
privacy
boundaries
hospital life
Mood
sarcastic
wry
Type
humorous
satirical
When to use this quote
- hospital stays
- medical appointments
- office work
- library study
Key Concepts
social etiquette
patient rights
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you negotiate privacy without demanding exclusivity?
- What alternatives exist for quiet time?
A Different Perspective
The request may be unrealistic in a shared environment.
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